Long Island Man 'Preyed On Girl's Innocence For Heinous Desires': DA

RIVERSIDE, NY — A Centereach man pleaded guilty to rape after prosecutors said he forced sex on a 6-year-old girl that he later offered pocket change to in exchange for her silence, prosecutors said.

In October 2021, Jose Romero, 34, sexually assaulted the girl, then gave her pocket change and told her not to tell her parents, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney said Thursday, citing the investigation and the defendant’s admissions during his guilty plea.

Despite Romero's attempt to hide the crime, the girl immediately told her parents, who contacted police. She was brought to Stony Brook University Hospital where a sexual assault nurse examiner found DNA evidence linking him to the crime.

Romero "preyed upon the innocence and vulnerability of a young child to satisfy his own heinous desires," Tierney said.

“Thankfully, she had the courage to come forward and testify in the Grand Jury so that the defendant could be brought to justice," he said. "This plea ensures that the young victim will not be re-victimized by being forced to face her abuser again in court.”

Judge Karen Wilutis ordered Romero held without bail.

He faces 12 years in prison, plus 10 years of post-release supervision, and must register as a sex offender.

His attorney, Christopher Brocato of Central Islip, said that his client pleaded guilty to the rape charge with the understanding that he would receive 12 years incarceration and 10 years post-release supervision.

Romero will likely be deported to his native country of Honduras after his release due to his immigration status.

"Pleading guilty to this type of felony usually leads to automatic deportation when you have no status in this country," he said, adding, "and he has no status in this country."

Romero is due back in court for sentencing on May 12.