WEST SPARTA: Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty reports the arrest
of an 18-year-old from North Cohocton after an investigation by the Sheriff's
Office. The investigation, which was handled by Deputy Bob Holt and Sheriff’s
Investigator Brad Schneider, was in regards to Murray A. Dunham allegedly having
an inappropriate relationship with a 14 year old female.
During the course of the investigation it was discovered and
further alleged that Dunham had sexual contact with the 14-year-old and also
sent indecent pictures of himself to her. Prior to these allegations, Dunham
already had an existing order of protection by the court issued against him to
stay away from the 14 year old.
The investigation led to charges against Dunham for the
felony of Disseminating Indecent Material to a Minor in the 2nd Degree, Sexual
Misconduct, and Criminal Contempt in the 2nd Degree.
Dunham was turned over to Central Booking Deputies at the
Livingston County Jail for processing and pre-arraignment detention. The District Attorney's Office recommended
bail be set at $2,500 cash or $5,000 bond.
Dunham was later arraigned before Justice Mahany in the Town
of West Sparta Court. The Judge remanded
Dunham to the custody of the Sheriff on $2,500 cash or $5,000 bond.
