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A registered sex offender in Utica has been arrested again on charges of sexual abuse and illegal surveillance. The Oneida County Child Advocacy Center received an anonymous tip that led to the arrest of 40-year-old Keenan Gant. An underage girl discovered a hidden recording device in her bedroom, prompting an investigation.
Authorities executed a search warrant at Gant's residence on Court Street on Tuesday (April 15), uncovering several surveillance cameras placed in areas where privacy was expected. According to CNYhomepage.com, Gant was found to have had inappropriate contact with the girl.
Gant was processed at the Utica Police Department and transported to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office in Oriskany. He was arraigned on Wednesday (April 16) on charges including first-degree sexual abuse, second-degree unlawful surveillance, and endangering the welfare of a child. He is currently held without bail at the Oneida County Correctional Facility.
The Oneida County Child Protective Services and the Child Advocacy Center are assisting the victim and her family. An order of protection has been issued for the child. The investigation involved collaboration with the Rome and Utica Police Departments, as well as the Oneida County District Attorney’s Office, as reported by Yahoo News.