Coxsackie Man Charged in Child Sexual Abuse Case Involving Victim Under 11

Greene County Man Arrested on Felony Sexual Abuse Charges

A Coxsackie man is behind bars after New York authorities charged him with sexually abusing a child under the age of 11. According to CBS6 Albany, Thomas Bender has been arrested and is currently being held at the Greene County Jail as the investigation continues.

Police say Bender engaged in sexual contact with a very young child, leading to charges of first-degree sexual abuse, one of the most serious child-protection felonies under New York law. Authorities have provided limited details due to the victim’s age and the need to safeguard the child's identity.

Investigators confirmed that evidence and interviews supported the allegations, prompting swift action to ensure the child’s safety. Additional charges may be filed as the case develops.

Authorities Emphasize Seriousness of the Allegations

Law enforcement officials have stated that cases involving young children require careful and trauma-informed investigative procedures. Detectives often collaborate with Child Advocacy Centers to ensure the victim receives emotional and medical support while reducing the risk of re-traumatization during forensic interviews.

The Greene County Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with additional information to come forward, noting that individuals who abuse children often have more than one victim. The arrest has raised concerns among community members, many expressing heartbreak over the alleged abuse of a child so young.

Child Sexual Abuse Leaves Deep and Lasting Impacts

Child sexual abuse—especially among victims under 11—can result in long-term emotional and psychological consequences. Survivors may experience:

• Anxiety, fear, and hypervigilance

• Nightmares or sleep disturbances

• Problems trusting adults

• Depression or withdrawal

• Developmental impacts and behavioral changes

Professionals stress that early therapeutic intervention can help lessen long-term harm. Still, the effects of abuse often follow survivors well into adulthood.

Survivors in New York Have Civil Legal Options

While criminal prosecution focuses on punishing offenders, survivors and families also have the right to pursue civil legal action. Civil lawsuits can help hold predators and negligent institutions financially accountable for the damage caused.

At Survivors of Abuse NY, attorney Thomas Giuffra, Esq. — The Abuse Lawyer NY represents survivors of child sexual abuse throughout the state, including cases involving family members, neighbors, teachers, religious leaders, medical professionals, and more.

Civil claims can help families recover compensation for:

• Counseling and mental health treatment

• Medical care

• Educational support needs

• Emotional suffering

• Long-term trauma and life impact

New York has expanded legal pathways for survivors through legislation like the Child Victims Act (CVA) and the Adult Survivors Act (ASA), allowing many victims to file claims that were previously barred by outdated statutes of limitations.

Survivors Deserve Safety, Support, and Justice

The arrest of Thomas Bender is a painful reminder of how often child sexual abuse occurs behind closed doors. Many survivors—especially very young children—cannot speak up for themselves, making strong legal and community responses essential.

At Survivors of Abuse NY, Thomas Giuffra, Esq. is committed to advocating for survivors with compassion, strength, and trauma-informed care. No child should suffer in silence, and no family should face the aftermath alone.

If you or someone you love has been affected by child sexual abuse in New York, confidential support is available. Speaking with an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and options for justice.

Source:

https://cbs6albany.com/news/local/coxsackie-man-charged-in-child-sex-abuse-case-thomas-bender-greene-county-jail-victim-under-11-years-old