New Victims Come Forward After Arrest In Rape Of 13-Year-Old: NRPD

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Police say that new potential victims have come forward after a 19-year-old New Rochelle man was arrested earlier this month in connection to the sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl.

"The New Rochelle police department has received reports from additional victims who came forward after our initial announcement," police officials said in a statement released on Tuesday. "Their statements provided crucial information that fortified the case against the suspect and uncovered further criminal activity. The courage shown by these survivors in sharing their experiences has been invaluable."

Based on this new information, Joey Valencia was charged with additional crimes. He remains in custody at the Westchester County Jail on $250,000.00 bail.

"Considering these developments, we strongly encourage other victims to come forward. Our investigation remains active, and we are committed to thoroughly examining all leads and supporting all victims," police said. "We thank our community for their continued cooperation and support in this sensitive matter."

Police say the investigation started earlier this month when the 13-year-old child was taken to the hospital for being highly intoxicated, and then reported that she might have been sexually assaulted.

Detectives said they were able to confirm that a crime had taken place, with the suspect, Joey Valencia, providing alcohol to the child.

While posing as the teenage girl, detectives made contact with Valencia. During that interaction, the undercover detective reiterated to Valencia that the girl was 13 years old. Despite this, Valencia continued to express interest in meeting up with her again, further implicating himself in the criminal activity, according to police.

Later that same evening, detectives arranged to meet with Valencia. When he arrived, police say he was taken into custody.

Valencia was initially charged with felony second degree rape, felony second degree attempted rape, and misdemeanor endangering the welfare of a child. After the new potential victims came forward, he was arrested on additional charges of felony rape in the second degree, felony rape in the first degree and felony first degreee criminal sexual act.

The NRPD says the investigation is still ongoing, and detectives are working to determine if there are any more victims out there.

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim or has information related to this case, is being urged to contact the New Rochelle Police Department at 914-654-2300.