An illegal immigrant from Guatemala has been charged with the rape of a 5-year-old girl he was babysitting on Long Island, according to local and federal authorities.
Police in Long Island say Carlos Aguilar Reynoso, a 36-year-old Guatemalan national, faces multiple charges including predatory sexual assault and sexual abuse following a disturbing incident that allegedly occurred while he was caring for the child.
Authorities initially arrested Reynoso on child endangerment charges but continued investigating after evidence reportedly pointed to sexual assault. The case intensified when local police collaborated with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials to keep Reynoso in custody while building a broader criminal case.
Federal investigators revealed details of the alleged assault earlier this week, describing the crime as “deeply troubling” and pledging full support for child protection agencies. Reynoso remains behind bars as both county and federal prosecutors prepare to formally present the case to a grand jury.
Officials say the victim is now receiving medical and emotional care, and community child safety advocates have called for stricter screening measures for babysitters and undocumented workers in childcare settings.
The Long Island District Attorney’s Office confirmed that if convicted, Reynoso could face a lengthy prison sentence under New York’s predatory sexual assault laws.
