Lawrence Taylor Indicted on Rape, Sex Abuse Charges

Ex-Giants star linebacker Lawrence J. Taylor has been indicted by a Rockland County grand jury in New City on rape charges as the result of an incident with an under-age prostitute at the Holidome in Montebello, according to Rockland District Attorney Thomas Zugibe.

Taylor, 51, of 532 Enclave Circle East, Pembroke Pines, Fla., was indicted on one count of rape in the third degree, a class "E" felony, one count of criminal sexual act in the third degree, a class "E" felony, and two counts of sexual abuse in the third degree, class "B" misdemeanors

Taylor was also indicted on one count of endangering the welfare of a child, a class "A" misdemeanor and one count of patronizing a prostitute in the third degree, a class "A" misdemeanor.

Taylor is accused of having sex and oral sexual contact with a 16-year-old female at the Holidome on May 6. The indictment alleges Taylor paid the teen $300 after performing the sexual acts.

The victim later told investigators that she had been verbally threatened, physically assaulted and brought to the hotel room by another individual, who was arrested by the New York City Police Department.

"The defendant in this case is the end-user in the criminal chain known as sex trafficking," Zugibe said. "Any effort to successfully combat this epidemic must confront not only the supply of vulnerable young women, but the demand which perpetuates this unsavory and illegal activity. We are going to hold those who create the demand accountable."

Taylor's arrest by the Ramapo Police Department followed a call from the NYPD in reference to a possible rape that occurred in the Holidome. In this case, Zugibe said it is alleged that the victim was forced to perform numerous sexual acts for money and to turn over the cash proceeds to her alleged pimp, Rasheed Davis.

 "One of the most effective ways to target prostitution is to go after the
johns," Zugibe said. "This indictment underscores our serious commitment to prosecuting those defendants who create a market for the region's growing sex trade. My Office will do everything possible to bring those who victimize and exploit vulnerable individuals to justice."

Arraignment on the indictment is set for Tuesday, July 13 at 9:30 a.m. in Rockland County Court before with Judge William Nelson. Taylor faces a maximum of four years in state prison if convicted.

Taylor is a frequent visitor to Ramapo, where he plays golf at the town's Spook Rock Golf Course. The Holidome is just a few minutes from Spook Rock.