Utica (WSYR-TV) - As the small town of Trenton in Oneida County attempts to come to grips with allegations against its top official, Mark Scheidelman, the authorities are still urging anyone who may have been abused by the former Boy Scout Leader to call them.
Right now, State Police are trying to determine whether there are more victims. They say the investigation could be lengthy.
Child Advocacy Center Director Dean Obernesser, a former US Marshal, says they've taken about 10 calls with information. He says each lead will be followed and potential victims will be interviewed.
Scheidelman currently faces one charge of child sexual abuse involving a boy under the age of 11.
"I think the public awareness is at a point where it's never been before, people are a lot more cognizant of what to look for,” Obernesser said.
The Child Advocacy Center investigates more than 450 cases a year. Their goal is not only to defend children who need help, but also to educate the community - and parents in particular.
“Open a line of communication with your kids, teach them it's okay to come forward, you didn't do anything wrong - often times these individuals groom the children,” Obernesser said.
State Police are looking back to the late 1980s because of Scheidelman’s years spent as a Boy Scouts leader.
Anyone with information on the incident or Scheidelman should call State Police at (315) 366-6000 or the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center at (315) 732-3990.
