A New York City man, identified as Stephen Charles, 42, appeared in Bronx Supreme Court on Monday to face a 48-count indictment on charges including rape and predatory sexual assault against children. Charles, who is a registered sex offender, reportedly attempted to delay his arraignment by claiming he was too fearful to take an elevator to the courtroom, citing a 25-year absence from such transport.
Charles' lawyer informed the judge that his client had not been in an elevator for two and a half decades. The delay lasted approximately one hour before Charles eventually agreed to use the elevator and proceeded to the courtroom. He pleaded not guilty before Judge Deronn Bowen, who ordered him held without bail.
Prosecutors allege that Charles preyed on at least six victims, primarily boys aged 10 to 16, between January 2018 and May 2026. The alleged assaults also included a 13-year-old girl and an 18-year-old man. Some of the victims were children with whom Charles had close relationships, including his own children and others who considered him a “godfather.” Prosecutors stated that Charles met some of these children at New York City shelters where he stayed with his four children.
New details revealed in court indicated that Charles' alleged actions came to light in June when an ex-girlfriend suspected abuse after their two children, aged 8 and 11, ran away from home. When confronted, the children reportedly told authorities that Charles, their biological father, had been harming them. This disclosure prompted another victim to come forward with accusations of sexual abuse.
The alleged attacks occurred across several Bronx neighborhoods, including Morris Heights, Baychester, and Soundview. Prosecutors believe there may be additional victims.
In addition to a prior conviction for failing to register as a sex offender in 2018, Charles has been a registered sex offender since 2004 for an undisclosed offense. The charges against him include rape, predatory sexual assault against a child, criminal sex act, and endangering the welfare of a child. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 1.