Man faces charges through sex crime investigation

A town of Freetown man is facing multiple charges after he allegedly “inappropriately touched” two minors under his supervision on April 18, according to a Cortland County Sheriff’s Office report.

The report states that Jerry L. Smith, 47, was “entrusted to watch over” the children, who are 15-years and 12-years of age, at his residence. The county sheriff’s office received a complaint in regard to Smith “inappropriately touching” the children on April 18. Smith was arrested on April 26 by sheriff’s deputies.

Lt. Garry Williams declined to comment on further details revolving around the sex crime investigation. He noted, however, the investigation is ongoing.

Smith has been charged with first-degree sexual abuse (Class-D Felony), forcible touching (Class-A Misdemeanor) and endangering the welfare of a child (Class-A Misdemeanor).

Smith was processed through the centralized arraignment program and released on one’s own recognizance. He is due to appear in Freetown Town Court at 5 p.m. May 25.