MIDDLEPORT, N.Y. — A Lockport man was arrested Friday following a child sexual abuse investigation in Middleport.
According to the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Bureau, investigators arrested Luke E. Smeal, 24, of the Town of Lockport, on March 13 in connection with incidents that allegedly occurred in 2025 in the Village of Middleport.
Authorities said Smeal has been charged with two counts of first-degree rape, both Class B felonies, as well as first-degree sexual abuse, a Class D felony, and endangering the welfare of a child, a misdemeanor.
Investigators allege Smeal was employed as a babysitter for a child under the age of 5 in Middleport, where the reported incidents took place.
Following the arrest, Smeal was held for Centralized Arraignment Part (CAP) Court, according to the sheriff’s office. Officials have not released additional details about the investigation or the victim due to the nature of the case.
The investigation was conducted by members of the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Bureau with assistance from supervisory staff.
Authorities did not indicate whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Cases involving child abuse and exploitation often involve lengthy investigations as detectives work to gather evidence and coordinate with prosecutors.
The arrest may be particularly relevant to local students, young families, and childcare workers who rely on trusted babysitters and caregivers in smaller communities.
Anyone with additional information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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