A 59-year-old man was indicted Tuesday after prosecutors say he raped a 16-year-old girl in a Huntington alley as she walked home on June 6. Authorities say the teenager escaped by scaling a fence while partially clothed, then called 911 as she ran from the scene.
What Prosecutors Say Happened
Prosecutors identified the suspect as Antonio Melendez Reyes, who they say approached the girl on New York Avenue and asked for her phone number. When she refused, he allegedly forced her into an alley and sexually assaulted her. The teenager broke free by climbing a tall fence while partially clothed, stayed on the line with 911 while trying to evade the attacker, and police then took Reyes into custody, according to News12.
Charges And What The Law Says
Prosecutors say Reyes was indicted on four counts that include rape, sexual abuse and endangering the welfare of a child. Under New York law, rape in the first degree is a class B violent felony that can carry a determinate sentence of up to 25 years in state prison. The state's criminal jury instructions outline the elements and sentencing ranges for Article 130 sex-offense charges, according to New York Courts.
Court Date And Immigration Detainer
Reyes is due back in court on July 21, 2026, and prosecutors say the top count carries a maximum sentence that could reach 25 years. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement has lodged a detainer seeking to take Reyes into custody following his prosecution, according to News12.
Legal Process And Support Resources
An indictment is an accusatory instrument, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty, language that is routinely emphasized in Suffolk County District Attorney press releases and courtroom guidance. For survivors or anyone affected by sexual violence, the National Sexual Assault Hotline operated by RAINN provides free, confidential 24/7 support at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or by texting "HOPE" to 64673, see RAINN. The Suffolk County District Attorney's newsroom similarly notes that criminal complaints and indictments are allegations while matters proceed through court, according to the Suffolk County DA.
