Trigger Warning: This article contains references to the alleged child se–-ual abuse that some readers may find distressing.

The NYPD arrested a Bronx man who had been se–ly abusing minors since 2018. Identified as Stephen Charles, his predatory crimes began around January 2018 and continued until May 2026.

He evaded arrest for eight years despite the severity of his crimes. The New York Police Department officers arrested him on Friday, July 31, 2026. According to the investigation, his victims were both boys and girls he used to meet at New York City shelters.

The police confirmed the crimes took place in different Bronx neighborhoods. He has been charged with multiple offenses, including five counts of predatory se–l assault against a child, six counts of ra–three counts of course of s–l conduct against a child, and one count of criminal se–l act.

Other charges include six counts each of use of a child in a s–l performance, promoting a s–l performance by a child, and possessing a s–l performance by a child, seven counts of s–l abuse and five counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

Charles used to prey on innocent minors who were in Bronx shelters in Bronx’s Morris Heights, Baychester, and Soundview sections. One of the accused’s relatives reported him to the NYPD. The investigation is still going on in the case.

A day before the arrest, the NYPD asked for help from the public and released Charles’ photos. They were looking for the 42-year-old accused of allegedly abusing a 13-year-old girl and five boys aged 10, 11, 13, 16, and 18.

The police noted his crimes happened across three different precincts, dating back to 2018. The department provides a Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) along with an option to send a tip on the social media platform X. Now that he has been arrested, he will be prosecuted for his heinous crimes.

Charles’ long criminal history shocked netizens. One viewer asked, “Why is he not locked up?” Since 2018?? Terrible.” Before the news of his arrest was released, another one posted, “They got a good picture of him, caught him and threw the book at him.”

 

One X user demanded, “Life without parole. For every victim. Run them consecutively.” Another added, “Execute this maniac human trash.” One more posted, “Execute this maniac human trash.”

“Once word of his crimes circulates amongst inmates, he won’t last 1 week in jail. Honor amongst thieves,” commented one more. Everyone was shocked after learning about how long his crimes went on without him being caught. One user added, “Eight years of alleged abuse is devastating. It also shows why protecting vulnerable people and reporting suspicious behavior matters.”

Disclaimer: The Inquisitr could not independently confirm the facts of this incident and is reporting based on the information available within the public video record.