Convicted sex offender arrested on rape charge
Authorities say a Saugerties man identified by the state as a sex offender was arrested on rape and other charges.
A Saugerties man identified by the state as a Level 2 sex offender after being convicted of having sex with a minor was arrested by state police last week and charged with rape and other sex crimes involving several underage victims, police said Saturday.
Justin J. Ross, 22, of 3180 state Route 32, Saugerties, was arrested by state police at Catskill on Thursday and was charged with rape, criminal sexual act and disseminating indecent material to minors, all felonies. Authorities said he was also charged with forcible touching and endangering the welfare of a child (two counts), all misdemeanors. The rape charge stemmed from his alleged sexual intercourse with a person who is under 15 years old or incapable of consent by reason of being mentally disabled or incapacitated.
His arrest followed a twomonth investigation, according to state police.
Police did not provide the age of the victims.
Ross is listed on the state public registry of sex offenders maintained by the Division of Criminal Justice Services because, according to the registry website, on March 18, 2016, he had intercourse without consent with a 14-year-old girl who was not a stranger to him. He was sentenced to six years probation.
A Level 2 sex offender is considered a moderate risk of repeat offense and is required to register for life. A Level 3 offender is considered the highest risk of repeat offense and a threat to public safety.
Justin J. Ross was arrested and was charged with rape, criminal sexual act and disseminating indecent material to minors, all felonies.
Ross was arraigned in Cairo Town Court and sent to the Greene County Jail in lieu of $25,000 bail.