Belfast, New York — A 33-year-old man has been arrested following an investigation into a serious allegation involving a child under the age of 11. Charles J. Gibney was taken into custody on December 30, 2025, after authorities completed an investigation initiated on November 24 of the same year.
The New York State Police reported that the arrest took place around 3:57 PM during a central arraignment. Gibney now faces a charge of first-degree rape, a Class B felony, related to sexual intercourse with a victim younger than 11. The specific statute under which he is charged is Penal Law §130.35(3), which mandates strict penalties for offenses involving minors.
In terms of legal proceedings, bail details were not available at the time of the report, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. The ongoing investigation indicates that law enforcement may be examining further aspects of the case to establish a complete picture of the allegations against Gibney.
The incident has raised concerns within the community, as such cases highlight the vulnerabilities of children and the need for protective measures. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance and reporting suspicious behavior to ensure the safety of minors.
In light of these serious charges, local residents are urged to remain aware of their surroundings and to report any information that could assist in the ongoing investigation. The New York State Police have not disclosed further details regarding specific circumstances of the crime, keeping some aspects of the case confidential as they progress with their inquiries.
Gibney’s next court appearance will be important for determining the direction of the legal proceedings and any potential implications for the community at large. As this case unfolds, law enforcement officials remain focused on ensuring that justice is served while also emphasizing the seriousness of crimes against children.