New Background Check Legislation Proposed Following LeClerc Arrest

Following the recent news of the arrest of an instructor at a popular Hudson Valley-based martial arts studio, local parents have understandably been expressing their concerns. A common question that has been coming up in many of the discussions is regarding background checks for staff members in these type of facilities. A local assemblyman has addressed these concerns with new legislation.

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Instructor At Hudson Valley Martial Arts School Arrested, Sex Abuse Charges

A 28-year-old instructor at a popular Martial Arts facility with six locations across the Hudson Valley was arrested earlier this month on sex abuse charges. Authorities indicate that Tyler G. Leclerc, of Hyde Park, was charged with Criminal Sexual Act in the Third Degree, a Class E Felony and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a Class A Misdemeanor.

Following reports of sexual abuse of a child, an investigation began in January, and uncovered evidence that 'Leclerc had sexually abused multiple children over the course of several years,' this according to New York State Police.

Since the news of the arrest, additional information has been revealed indicating that Leclerc had abused several children during March 2022. Reports shared that a temporary extreme risk order was filed by state police.

Assemblyman Announces Legislation Mandating Background Checks For 'Youth Service Providers'

Assemblyman Anil Beephan has introduced legislation to 'strengthen protections for minors' through mandatory background checks for ALL employees, volunteers, and independent contractors working at businesses serving children.

First and foremost, my heart goes out to the victims and their families who have been affected by this horrific situation. Parents should never have to question whether their children are safe when attending instructional programs or extracurricular activities. This common-sense legislation will close dangerous loopholes in existing laws and ensure that individuals with troubling criminal pasts cannot gain access to children in these settings.

Beephan's legislation also seeks to prohibit individuals with certain criminal backgrounds from owning and or operating a youth service business.

The official name of the proposed bill, “An Act to Amend the General Business Law, in Relation to Requiring Mandatory Background Checks for Persons Employed by Certain Businesses Serving Minors and Prohibiting Certain Persons from Owning Such Businesses” would implement the background checks for services like martial arts schools, dance studios, sports training facilities, music and performing arts facilities and tutoring centers.

In a press release from Assemblyman Beephan's office, the legislation would require comprehensive background checks prior to employment or ownership, with re-checks to occur every three years. These checks would screen for 'serious criminal offenses, including sex offenses, violent crimes and offenses against children, and would disqualify from employment, volunteering, or ownership, anyone who fails a check.

At this time, there is no law in New York State that requires these type of background checks.