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Tyler LeClerc, a former karate instructor from Hyde Park has been sentenced to 10 years in state prison for sexually abusing children. LeClerc, 28, was sentenced on Wednesday (September 3) by Dutchess County Court Judge Jessica Segal. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including two counts of third-degree criminal sexual act, one count of first-degree attempted sexual abuse, and two counts of forcible touching.
LeClerc's crimes took place at his father's martial arts school, Leclerc Martial Arts, where he was an instructor. The investigation revealed that LeClerc had sexually abused multiple children over several years, with incidents occurring between March 2021 and February 2025. According to the Dutchess County District Attorney's Office, LeClerc will also serve 10 years of post-release supervision and must register as a sex offender.
The case has brought significant attention to Leclerc Martial Arts, which was founded by Tyler's father, Robert Leclerc, and had six locations across the Hudson Valley. Following Tyler's arrest, the school closed, and further allegations of abuse by individuals associated with the school, including Robert Leclerc, emerged.
District Attorney Anthony Parisi stated, "With this 10-year prison sentence, the defendant has been held accountable for his crimes." He emphasized that the prosecution aimed to deliver justice while minimizing the trauma for the victims.
The case has sparked protests and calls for legislative changes to require background checks for staff at martial arts schools and other youth centers. Christina Vaitkus, a parent of a former student, expressed relief at the sentence but noted that no prison term could fully address the harm caused to the victims.