Danning Lake, an 86-year-old resident of Scotia, New York, has pled guilty to abusive sexual contact. The incident occurred on February 29, 2024, at the Albany VA Medical Center when Lake groped a nursing student who was providing him medical care.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Thomas Gibbons, Chief of the Department of Veterans Affairs Police at Stratton VA Medical Center; and Special Agent in Charge Christopher F. Algieri of the Northeast Field Office for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.
Lake admitted to grabbing the breast of the nursing student and making inappropriate comments during the incident. He told her, “did you like that?” and “they feel nice.” When questioned by a VA Police Officer, Lake stated he would repeat his actions if given another opportunity. It was confirmed that his mental status was not influenced by medication, age, or illness at the time.
Lake's sentencing is scheduled for March 20, 2025. He could face up to two years in prison, a fine up to $250,000, and a supervised release term of up to one year. Additionally, he will be required to register as a sex offender following his conviction.
The case was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs Police Department and Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan S. Reiner and Tamara B. Thomson are leading the prosecution.