New York State Police Arrest Cornwall Man on Child Sexual Abuse Charges
The New York State Police announced the arrest of James Valentine, a 57-year-old resident of Cornwall, New York, on serious charges related to the sexual abuse of minors spanning over two decades.
Details of the Arrest
On July 2, 2025, Valentine was taken into custody following an extensive investigation that began on June 4, 2025. The investigation was initiated when Montgomery Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) investigators were notified of inappropriate interactions between Valentine and two 15-year-old male victims at his Cornwall home.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Valentine faces the following charges:
- Attempted Criminal Sexual Act 1st (Class C Felony)
- Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child 2nd (Class D Felony)
He was arraigned in the Town of Clarkstown Court and remanded to Rockland County Jail with bail set at:
-$25,000 cash
-$50,000 bond
-$75,000 partially secured bond
Valentine is scheduled to reappear in court on July 7, 2025.
Investigation Reveals Decades-Long Pattern
The investigation uncovered evidence suggesting Valentine had been inappropriately touching numerous juvenile male victims over the course of more than twenty years. This disturbing pattern of behavior has prompted law enforcement to believe additional unidentified victims may exist both within and outside of New York State.
Multi-Agency Collaboration
The New York State Police received assistance from several agencies:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation New York’s Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force
- Town of Clarkstown Police
- Rockland County District Attorney’s Office
- Orange County District Attorney’s Office
Call for Additional Victims and Witnesses
Authorities are actively seeking additional victims and witnesses. Parents are urged to speak with their children about this case. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the New York State Police at 845-344-5300 and reference Case #NY2500504980.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, support is available through:
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- Local victim advocacy services
- RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
