Authorities launch investigation into sex abuse claim at United Talmudical Academy in Kiryas Joel

Authorities in Orange County have launched an investigation into allegations of child sex abuse after a leaked video from inside an ultra-Orthodox yeshiva. The investigation is focusing on the principal

News 12 Staff

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May 4, 2016, 1:35 AM

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Updated 3,292 days ago

Authorities in Orange County have launched an investigation into allegations of child sex abuse after a leaked video from inside an ultra-Orthodox yeshiva.

The investigation is focusing on the principal at the United Talmudical Academy in Kiryas Joel.

The video, reportedly recorded inside the yeshiva last year, shows a man that police have identified as the principal, holding and caressing an elementary school boy between his legs for 15 minutes.

Some say it appears the principal, who is reportedly a rabbi, may be kissing the boy while the child tries to pull away.

State Police Major Joseph Tripodo said Tuesday that investigators launched a joint investigation with the Orange County District Attorney's Office and Child Abuse Unit.

While authorities are involved now, members of the ultra-Orthodox community alerted News 12 to the video Monday after officials previously declined to press charges.