Police said the attacks began 10 years ago, continued for more than year
Terry C. Smith, 63, of West Chester, is accused of the indecent assault of a child more than 10 years ago.
After more than six months of investigation, West Goshen Township Police have charged a 63-year-old West Chester man in connection with a sexual assault against a child that occurred 10 years ago, a West Goshen Police news release said.
Terry C. Smith was arraigned Friday on charges that include endangering the welfare of children, indecent assault and corruption of a minor. He was committed to Chester County Prison to await a Tuesday preliminary hearing after failing to post $100,000 cash bail, court records said.
The West Goshen Township Police detectives said they believe that this may be an isolated incident, but they are encouraging people to come forward with any information or similar allegations against Smith.
Police said they received a complaint on April 3 from the victim, who is now an adult. The victim reported that Smith was in a position of authority and supervised the victim and other children during “sleep-overs” at Smith’s residence, police said. The victim said Smith initiated indecent contact with the victim in the overnight hours, police said.
During the investigation, police said they utilized current technological equipment and procedures to identify and corroborate the allegations. They said Smith admitted to his actions, citing that he was sexually attracted to the victim, who was 8 when the first indecent contact occurred. Police said the assaults began during 2002 and continued over multiple occasions, ending during 2004.
