NY man faces multiple charges involving child sexual abuse and evidence tampering – WRGB

NY man faces multiple charges involving child sexual abuse and evidence tampering – WRGB

Report on the Indictment of Hugo Horacio Perez-Gabriel and Its Relevance to Sustainable Development Goals

Case Overview

Hugo Horacio Perez-Gabriel, a 32-year-old resident of New Rochelle, New York, has been indicted on multiple charges related to the sexual abuse of a local child. The indictment was announced by Westchester County District Attorney Susan Cacace.

Charges Filed

  1. Rape in the Third Degree (Class E felony)
  2. Criminal Sexual Act in the Third Degree (Class E felony)
  3. Tampering with Physical Evidence (Class E felony)
  4. Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Class A misdemeanor)
  5. Sexual Abuse in the Third Degree (Class B misdemeanor)

Additionally, Perez-Gabriel was previously indicted on 22 counts involving possession and promotion of child pornography, including:

  • Use of a Child in a Sexual Performance (two counts, Class C felony)
  • Possessing an Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child (17 counts, Class E felony)

He pleaded not guilty to all charges during his arraignment on March 11 and was remanded pending further proceedings by Judge Robert Prisco.

Investigation and Prosecution

  • The New Rochelle Police Department is leading the investigation.
  • Senior Assistant District Attorney Charlotte Gudis and Bureau Chief Christine Hatfield of the Special Prosecutions Division are prosecuting the case.

Emphasis on Child Protection and Sustainable Development Goals

District Attorney Susan Cacace highlighted the gravity of the offenses, stating:

“Any abuse of children, not to mention repeated sexual abuse, is especially grotesque. My administration is committed to holding abusers accountable, and this new indictment represents that unwavering commitment. The children of Westchester are our legacy, and we must do everything in our power to ensure their safety.”

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This case underscores critical aspects of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:

  • SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Protecting children from abuse promotes their physical and mental health.
  • SDG 4: Quality Education – Ensuring safe environments for children supports their right to education and development.
  • SDG 5: Gender Equality – Addressing sexual abuse contributes to gender equality and the empowerment of all children.
  • SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – The legal actions demonstrate commitment to justice and the protection of vulnerable populations.

Conclusion

The indictment and ongoing prosecution of Hugo Horacio Perez-Gabriel reflect a strong institutional commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and well-being, directly contributing to the achievement of multiple Sustainable Development Goals. Continued efforts by law enforcement and judicial authorities are essential to uphold justice and promote safe, inclusive communities.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

  1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
    • The article discusses legal actions and prosecution related to child sexual abuse, highlighting the importance of justice and strong institutions to protect vulnerable populations.
  2. SDG 5: Gender Equality
    • Although the article focuses on a male victim, the issue of sexual abuse is linked to broader concerns of gender-based violence and protection of children, which is a component of SDG 5.
  3. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
    • Child sexual abuse has significant impacts on physical and mental health, connecting the article’s issues to SDG 3’s goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

  1. SDG 16 Targets:
    • Target 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of children.
    • Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
  2. SDG 5 Targets:
    • Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.
  3. SDG 3 Targets:
    • Target 3.4: Promote mental health and well-being.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

  1. Indicators for SDG 16.2:
    • Number of reported cases of child sexual abuse and exploitation (implied by the charges and indictments).
    • Number of prosecutions and convictions related to child abuse cases (implied by the legal proceedings described).
  2. Indicators for SDG 16.3:
    • Proportion of victims of violence who have access to justice and legal remedies (implied by the arraignment and prosecution process).
  3. Indicators for SDG 5.2:
    • Prevalence of sexual violence against children (implied by the nature of the crimes reported).
  4. Indicators for SDG 3.4:
    • Prevalence of mental health issues among child abuse survivors (implied by the impact of abuse).

4. Table of SDGs, Targets and Indicators

SDGs Targets Indicators
SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
  • 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of children.
  • 16.3: Promote the rule of law and ensure equal access to justice for all.
  • Number of reported child sexual abuse cases.
  • Number of prosecutions and convictions related to child abuse.
  • Proportion of victims with access to justice.
SDG 5: Gender Equality
  • 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls, including sexual exploitation.
  • Prevalence of sexual violence against children.
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
  • 3.4: Promote mental health and well-being.
  • Prevalence of mental health issues among child abuse survivors.

Source: cbs6albany.com