A Central Islip man has been found guilty of repeatedly sexually abusing a child, starting when she was just eight years old.
The trial revealed disturbing details of the abuse that began in September 2018. Jose Marquez Acosta was frequently alone with the victim in the mornings while his wife, who babysat the victim and other children, took them to the bus stop. During these times, Acosta sexually abused the child in their home. The abuse persisted until March 2020 when the shift to remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic meant the victim no longer visited Acosta’s home.
The victim confided in her older cousin at the end of 2021, who then helped her report the abuse to her mother in early 2022. Her mother contacted the police, leading to Acosta’s arrest following a thorough investigation.
On April 15, 2024, Acosta, 59, was convicted of second-degree course of sexual conduct against a child, a Class D violent felony, and endangering the welfare of a Child, a Class A misdemeanor. The trial was presided over by Acting Supreme Court Judge Karen M. Wilutis.
Acosta is due back in court for sentencing on June 10, 2024.
“The courage this child showed in testifying in an open courtroom against her abuser is nothing short of admirable,” said Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. “Because of her, my prosecutors were able to hold the defendant accountable for his despicable acts.”