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In Rhinebeck, a petition advocating for stricter background checks for individuals working with children is gaining traction following the arrest of Tyler Leclerc, a 28-year-old karate instructor from Hyde Park. Leclerc, who was employed at his father's martial arts school, faces charges of third-degree criminal sexual act and endangering the welfare of a child. The charges stem from allegations of abuse involving multiple underage students over several years.
The petition, initiated by the group "No Predators in Kids' Spaces," has garnered over 650 signatures. The campaign seeks to amend New York state laws to close existing loopholes in background checks for those working with children in afterschool programs. According to the Poughkeepsie Journal, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey, along with other lawmakers, introduced a bill on February 21 to address these gaps. The proposed legislation would mandate comprehensive background checks for employees, volunteers, and business operators in settings such as martial arts studios, music schools, and sports facilities.
The bill aims to prevent registered sex offenders from owning or working in youth service centers and requires checks of state and federal sex offender registries. Assemblyman Anil Beephan emphasized that this legislation is a necessary step to ensure the safety of children in extracurricular activities. "Parents should never have to question whether their children are safe," Beephan stated.
The bill is currently under review in the New York State Senate. If passed, it would enforce background checks before hiring or ownership, with rechecks every three years, disqualifying individuals with serious criminal offenses.