New 15-Count Sex Abuse Indictment Handed Down Just Weeks After Previous Indictment

HYDE PARK, NY — A Dutchess County grand jury has handed down new sex abuse charges against a Hyde Park man.

Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi announced that 40-year-old Daniel Smith, of Hyde Park, was charged by two indictments by a Dutchess County grand jury and arraigned in Dutchess County Court.

Smith was arraigned on Apr. 13 on a 15-count indictment, charging him with four felony counts of predatory sexual assault; four felony counts of first-degree rape; two felony counts of third-degree aggravated sexual abuse; one felony count of first-degree sexual abuse; two misdemeanor counts of third-degree assault; one misdemeanor count of criminal obstruction of breathing; and one misdemeanor count of fourth-degree tampering with a witness.

The charges in the 15-count indictment are related to violent incidents prosecutors say took place on several dates last month, in the Town of Hyde Park. Bail was set at $500,000 cash, $1 million partially secured bond and $1.5 million unsecured bond.

"Today's arraignment lays out deeply troubling allegations of repeated sexual violence, including multiple counts of Predatory Sexual Assault and Rape in the First Degree," Parisi said. "The charges in the indictment further allege conduct that reflects not only the severity of the abuse, but efforts to exert control, silence the victim, and evade accountability. These cases are among the most serious we prosecute, and they require a careful, victim-centered approach that recognizes both the trauma involved and the courage it takes to come forward. Our Office remains steadfast in its commitment to seeking justice, ensuring that the victim is supported and protected while we pursue this case with the full weight of the law."

Smith was previously arraigned on March 27, on an indictment charging him with felony second-degree assault, related to another violent incident police say took place on March 24, in the City of Poughkeepsie. Smith's bail was set at $500,000 cash, $1 million partially secured bond and $1.5 million unsecured bond.

Smith's next court date for both matters is scheduled for April 30.

The case was investigated by the Hyde Park Police Department and is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant DA James Bryant.