In a deeply unsettling case that has shocked the Hudson Valley community, a local martial arts instructor has pleaded guilty to multiple sexual offenses involving minors. Tyler LeClerc, a Hyde Park resident and operator of Leclerc’s Martial Arts, admitted in court to several charges of sexual abuse and inappropriate contact with children under his supervision.
Guilty Plea Announced by Dutchess County DA
On Thursday, Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi publicly announced the guilty plea of Tyler LeClerc. The 27-year-old instructor pleaded guilty to:
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Two counts of Criminal Sexual Act in the Third Degree (felony)
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One count of Attempted Sexual Abuse in the First Degree (felony)
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Two counts of Forcible Touching (misdemeanor)
Parisi emphasized that the plea deal was reached after consultation with the victims’ families, who sought to avoid the emotional burden of a public trial for their children.
“This plea agreement was made following the unanimous request of the victims’ parents, who wished to spare their children the emotional trauma of testifying in a public trial,” said DA Parisi. “Our office’s top priority has always been the well-being of the victims, and this resolution reflects the families’ desire to achieve justice while protecting their children from further harm.”
Background of the Investigation
LeClerc, who ran Leclerc’s Martial Arts, operated six martial arts training centers across Dutchess and Ulster counties. He had been a trusted instructor in the community, making the revelations even more alarming to parents and residents in the area.
The investigation into LeClerc’s behavior began in early 2025, when the New York State Police received a report concerning the sexual abuse of a child. Following the initial complaint, law enforcement conducted a detailed inquiry that led to LeClerc’s arrest on February 5, 2025.
At the time of his arrest, LeClerc was charged with:
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Criminal Sexual Act in the Third Degree (Class E Felony)
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Two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Class A Misdemeanors)
42-Count Indictment Unsealed
In March 2025, a 42-count indictment was unsealed against LeClerc, detailing a horrifying pattern of abuse over multiple years. The charges stemmed from offenses committed between 2023 and 2025 and involved several young victims—some as young as 12 years old.
Chilling Admissions in Court
In his plea, LeClerc made several specific and deeply disturbing admissions:
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On March 11, 2023, and March 10, 2024, he engaged in oral sexual conduct with a person under the age of 17.
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On April 1, 2024, and again on October 22, 2024, he had sexual contact with a child younger than 13 years old.
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On May 1, 2023, May 1, 2024, and April 1, 2024, as well as February 3, 2025, he forcibly touched the sexual or intimate parts of two different minors for his own sexual gratification.
These confessions have left the community reeling and have prompted questions about how someone in a position of authority and trust was able to engage in such acts over an extended period.
Community Reaction and Support for Victims
Parents and local residents expressed outrage and disbelief upon learning about LeClerc’s actions. Many families had enrolled their children in his martial arts programs, trusting him to provide mentorship, discipline, and guidance.
Local advocacy groups and victim support organizations have since stepped in to provide resources for the affected families. The Hudson Valley Child Advocacy Center has offered counseling and crisis intervention services to any child or family affected by the case.
Sentencing and Next Steps
LeClerc is scheduled to be sentenced in the coming months. The exact terms of his sentencing have not yet been disclosed, but given the nature and severity of the charges, a lengthy prison term is expected. Prosecutors have indicated they will pursue maximum penalties permitted under the law.
DA Parisi reaffirmed that the case underscores the importance of vigilance when it comes to safeguarding children from sexual predators, even those embedded in respected community institutions.
What Parents Should Know
Law enforcement authorities have urged any other potential victims or witnesses with information about Tyler LeClerc to come forward. They emphasized that there is no statute of limitations for many sexual offenses involving minors, and new charges could still be brought if other crimes are uncovered.
Parents who suspect abuse are encouraged to report it immediately to their local police department or contact the New York State Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-342-3720.
A Call for Stricter Oversight
This case has reignited discussions about background checks and oversight for instructors working with children in extracurricular activities. Several local officials have proposed strengthening requirements for youth instructors and mandating reporting procedures for suspected abuse in martial arts and similar private academies.
As the Hudson Valley community continues to recover from the shock of this betrayal, the focus now turns to supporting the victims and ensuring safeguards are in place to prevent such tragedies in the future.
If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse, please reach out to the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). Help is available. You are not alone.
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