Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby announced today that a Saratoga County jury has found Brian Hopkins guilty of Predatory Sexual Assault of a Child, a Class A-II felony, following a jury trial in Saratoga County Court.
“This verdict is a powerful affirmation of the courage and truth of a young victim who endured unimaginable trauma,” said District Attorney Eby. “We are profoundly grateful to the victim and the victim’s family for their tremendous strength in standing up to a dangerous individual. Their bravery made this conviction possible and has ensured that this defendant will no longer be able to harm others.”
District Attorney Eby praised the extraordinary efforts of the prosecution team. “Senior Bureau Chief Michele Schettino is one of the top prosecutors in the State of New York. She worked exceptionally long hours for months, leaving no detail uncovered and no stone unturned, to ensure justice for this victim. Alongside her was Assistant District Attorney Alexander Brennan, who also worked tirelessly and was an invaluable asset at trial in securing this just result.”
District Attorney Eby also extended his gratitude to the dedicated members of the Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office who contributed to securing the conviction: Crime Victim Advocate Ashley Kitts, Special Victims Bureau Chief Rachael Phelan, Senior Attorney Andreanna Diliberto, Investigator Michael Hourigan, Investigator Mike Wells, Investigator Jack Barney, Investigator Joseph Iwaniec, Investigator Mark Sauter, Investigator Tim Sicko, and legal intern Audrey Fountain.
“We are equally grateful to our partners in law enforcement whose professionalism and commitment were instrumental in this case,” Eby said. “We thank the New York State Police, including Investigator Michael Menges, Investigator Roger Lind, Lieutenant Shane Larkin, Investigator Cecile LeBarron, Senior Investigator Matthew Britten, and Investigator John Montesano for their thorough investigation and steadfast dedication to protecting children in our community.”
“Our office will seek the maximum punishment allowable under the law,” District Attorney Eby stated. “Predatory sexual assault of a child is among the most heinous crimes prosecuted in our courts. We will continue to stand with victims, pursue justice relentlessly, and ensure that those who prey upon children are held fully accountable.”
Sentencing will be held before the Honorable James R. Davis at a later date.