2 Officers Charged With Multiple Crimes
Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II announced multiple indictments, that were handed down by a grand jury, of two Rockland County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Officers. The officers were indicted on multiple misdemeanors and felonies. The indictments were a result of an ongoing investigation into sexual mistreatment of female minority inmates.
John Kezek, 35, of Stony Point, NY, was indicted on 5 counts of Official Misconduct (misdemeanor). Kezek engaged in a course of sexual harassment of more than one female minority inmate.
Christopher Taggart, 39, of New City, NY, was indicted on 21 counts of Official Misconduct (misdemeanor) and 2 counts of Promoting Prison Contraband (felony). Taggart unlawfully introduced dangerous contraband into the Rockland County Jail and he engaged in an inappropriate relationship with female minority inmates.
Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh said “The indictments today bring to light an ongoing issue that arises from time to time of the mishandling of females incarcerated in the corrections systems. A defense attorney notified my office that her client was a victim of intimidation, misconduct, and sexual harassment which prompted this investigation. Far too often, female inmates are not considered to have the same rights as those of us who are walking the streets. We can’t allow a systemic issue of female minorities being mistreated in our jails. My office has worked diligently to ensure that ALL of our residents, whether incarcerated or not, are treated fairly and have their rights protected. The courage of these females who came forward to report this sexual harassment cannot be understated. They took a stand against individuals who were in a position of authority and have opened themselves up to further harassment and intimidation. The Rockland County District Attorney’s Office will insure that this will not happen and vigorously prosecute anyone who dares to cross that line.”
Both Kezek and Taggart will appear for arraignments in County Court in the near future. The Rockland County District Attorney’s Office asks that if anyone has any additional information to please use our anonymous tip line to report any additional victims by downloading the RocklandCO DA Tip 411 app (available in the APP store or Google Play). You can also text the keyword ROCKLANDCODA to 847411, type in your tip information and hit send.
