Verdict in Spring Valley Child Rape

CLARKSTOWN, NY — Luiz Acevedo-Lopez of 33 South Main Street, Spring Valley was convicted Wednesday after a jury trial of all counts in the indictment charging him with:

• One count of Predatory Sexual Assault Against a Child, a class “A-II” Felony
• One count of Rape in the First Degree , a class “B” Felony
• One count of Criminal Sexual Act in the First Degree, a class “B” Felony
• Two counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, class “D” Felonies
• One count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a class “A” Misdemeanor

“Without a doubt, this defendant is a dangerous predator,” said Rockland County District Attorney Thomas P. Zugibe in the announcement. “There is no room in a civilized society for individuals such as this defendant.”

Between Jan. 1 and March 31, 2016, the 19-year-old repeatedly sexually assaulted a 5-year-old girl with whom he had a familial relationship, prosecutors said. The abuse took place in Spring Valley.

Trial testimony included that of the victim, who is now 6. The jury was also shown the defendant’s videotaped statement to Spring Valley Detectives.

“The consequences of sexual assault for the victim are profound, and often result in emotional trauma from which she may never fully recover,” said Zugibe. “I marvel at her strength and commend her bravery for offering testimony at trial.”

This sensitive trial was handled by Supervising Assistant District Attorney Jennifer S. Parietti and Senior Assistant District Attorney John W. McGowan, both members of the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office Special Victims Unit.