Elderly Rye Man Arrested On Child Rape Charges

RYE, NH — A multi-jurisdiction investigation into a child sexual assault complaint led to the arrest of a local man last weekend, according to police. Richard Racette, 69, of Rye, was arrested on July 30, 2017, for aggravated felonious sexual assault, felonious sexual assault, two counts of criminal threatening, and prohibited sales of alcohol. The charges were investigated by the Rye Police Department, Rockingham County Attorney’s Office, New Hampshire Internet Crimes against Children Task Force and the Child Advocacy Center of Rockingham County.

Editor’s Note: This post was derived from information supplied by the Rye Police Department. It does not indicate a conviction. This link explains the name removal request process for NH Patch police reports.

“The team was able to gather corroborating information in determining the alleged perpetrator involved because of the courage of the victims, support of their families, and the cooperation of a local business,” according to police.

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An arrest warrant was signed on Sunday after information was collected and investigated, police noted.

Racette was held on $75,000 cash bail. He has a probable cause hearing on Aug. 17.

The incident is still under investigation. Anyone with information can call 603-964-7450 or send a tip to Seacoast Crime Stoppers.