NORWICH – Two days into a bench trial in the case of a Greene man charged with sexual crimes, Chenango County Court Judge Frank B. Revoir Jr. adjourned proceedings until Sept. 16.
Matthew W. Bullock, 41, has pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him; two counts of second degree criminal sexual act, a class D felony, and endangering the welfare of a child, a class A misdemeanor. Said charges allege that Bullock, in March of 2012, did engage in a criminal sexual act with a person under the age of 15.
Tuesday, the now 16-year-old alleged victim took the stand as a witness for the prosecution and testified under oath that while he, his siblings and mother were living with the defendant in Greene, the defendant engaged in various sexual acts with him. The boy’s mother took the stand as a witness for the prosecution letting the court know her son has been diagnosed with ADHD and a mild form of autism.
When the alleged victim spoke with New York State Police Investigator Wesley E. Mills III on Aug. 7, he stated the sexual acts took place in June or July, one month before his family moved from Bullock’s residence. Two days later, on Aug. 9, the alleged victim stated the incidents took place between March and the end of April of 2012.
The minor was questioned regarding the varying dates and said, “It was an honest mistake.”
The alleged victim also testified that he and Bullock would often spend time together, watching Star Trek, and on more than one occasion Bullock touched him in a sexual manner.
Bullock took the stand in his defense on Wednesday. When asked by his attorney, Scott J. Clippinger, if he had ever touched the boy, Bullock – under oath – responded, “No.”
The defendant stated that he and the alleged victim’s family lived in the residence together – owned by Bullock’s mother – and they would collectively eat dinner and spend time watching TV or DVDs. He stated on the record the only DVD player was in his own bedroom, and that, according to testimony, is where they would watch the programs – not only the alleged victim, but his mother, brother and sister as well.
