A 57-year-old man from South Dayton, Ronald Howard, has been arrested and is facing multiple charges, including rape and gun-related offenses. The arrest was made by the New York State Police following an investigation into the alleged rape of a 14-year-old girl in Niagara County.
According to authorities, Howard is accused of exchanging indecent material with the minor before engaging in sexual intercourse with her. The disturbing incident has shocked the community.
During a search warrant executed on Monday, law enforcement officials discovered a cache of weapons at Howard's residence. The findings included five handguns, two assault rifles (one equipped with a silencer), two assault rifle receivers without serial numbers, multiple large capacity magazines, and two ballistic vests. These discoveries have led to additional charges against Howard related to the possession and illegal acquisition of firearms.
The charges filed against Howard include second-degree rape, second-degree criminal sex act, first-degree disseminating indecent material to a minor, endangering the welfare of a child, second-degree possession of a weapon, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, registration and serialization violations, manufacture and transport of weapons, and unlawful purchase of body armor.
Following his arrest, Howard was processed and is currently being held at the Niagara County Jail pending arraignment. The authorities are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the victim and will continue to investigate the case thoroughly.
The New York State Police urge anyone with information related to this case or any other potential victims to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
As the legal process unfolds, the community stands united in support of the victim and her family, hoping for justice to be served and for healing to begin.