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LEGAL NEWSLINE

Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Florida man convicted of child molestation charges dating back to 2015

State AG
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Attorney General Peter Neronha | Facebook Website

A Florida man has been convicted of multiple counts of child molestation in Providence County Superior Court. Chad Lavallee, 40, from Ruskin, Florida, was found guilty on October 15, 2024, after a five-day jury trial overseen by Superior Court Justice Kristin E. Rodgers. Lavallee faced three counts of first-degree child molestation and two counts of second-degree child molestation for offenses committed between 2015 and 2016 against a victim under the age of 14.

Attorney General Peter F. Neronha announced the conviction, emphasizing the significance of supporting child victims to aid their recovery and ensure justice is served. "The traumatic effects of childhood sexual abuse are real, and advocating for child victims is an important step in the recovery process," he stated. Neronha also praised the Cumberland Police Department and his office's attorneys for their dedication to the case.

The prosecution successfully demonstrated that Lavallee assaulted the young victim at locations in Cumberland and Lincoln during 2015 and 2016. After the victim reported the abuse in 2020, Lavallee moved to Florida but was later apprehended and extradited back to Rhode Island.

Cumberland Police Chief Matthew Benson expressed gratitude for the victim's bravery in coming forward. "We thank the victim, in all of her courage, for helping us achieve this disposition," he said. He also acknowledged Sergeant Adam Ledoux and others involved in investigating and prosecuting the case.

Assistant Attorney General Meghan McDonough, Special Assistant Attorney General Meagan Thomson, and Sergeant Adam Ledoux played key roles in leading the investigation and prosecution efforts.

Lavallee remains held without bail at the Adult Correctional Institutions (ACI) while awaiting sentencing.

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