Hudson Valley bus conductor charged with sexually abusing 8-year-old

A school bus aide in New York state has been charged with sexually abusing a victim under the age of 9, according to state police.

Police officers said they received a tip last week from the Minisink Valley Central School District administrator about an incident involving Nicola Loguerico, 76, of Orange County, and an 8-year-old girl.

“Investigations by the State Police (Bureau of Criminal Investigation) revealed that Loguerico had inappropriately touched the victim over the course of the past week,” a State Police press release said.

He was arrested Monday and charged with first-degree sexual abuse, a felony punishable by up to seven years in prison. Additionally, if convicted, Loguerico may be required to register as a sex offender.

The suspect was booked into the Orange County Jail later Monday on $5,000 bail and $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Wawayanda Town Court on Thursday.

No further details about the case were released.

“Please know that the safety of our students is always our top priority. We appreciate your support and understanding. Thank you,” the school district said in a statement.

State police urged anyone with further information about Loguerico to come forward.