Sex Abuse Allegations Against Former Arlington Boys & Girls Club Worker
ARLINGTON (CBS) – A former worker at the Arlington Boys and Girls Club is under arrest in New York, accused of molesting five children while he was employed by the club.
Police say the incidents all occurred in the late 1970's and early 1980's.
Paul Collins, 62, of Centerreach, NY was arrested at his home on Friday.
Collins faces charges of rape of a child with force, three counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14, and lewdness, open and gross conduct.
He faces a hearing Saturday in New York.
The Arlington Boys and Girls Club released a statement saying it was deeply disturbed to learn of the allegations.
"We have been working cooperatively with the Arlington Police throughout the course of their investigation in recognition that no child should ever experience the trauma of abuse of any kind. Our thoughts and prayers are with all victims," the statement said in part.
The club says the allegations are unrelated to those made against William Sullivan, another former employee who is deceased.
Arlington Police Chief Fred Ryan says the club's management is fully cooperating with investigators.
I want to emphasize, there is no reason to believe that there is currently any risk to any children at the Arlington Boys & Girls Club and these alleged crimes occurred decades ago," Chief Ryan said.
