CHEEKTOWAGA, New York – Five New York National Guardsmen and a contract worker are facing allegations of sexually exploiting asylum seekers at a hotel in Cheektowaga. According to a report, seven migrants have come forward, detailing instances of sexual exploitation by at least six National Guard soldiers at the Quality Inn. The soldiers were deployed to assist with the influx of migrants being bussed to the state. The allegations, outlined in a federal lawsuit filed on February 8, accuse the soldiers of soliciting sexual favors and attempting to form romantic relationships with vulnerable migrants, including teenagers.
The lawsuit describes the guests at the hotel as particularly vulnerable due to their uncertain immigration status and lack of mobility. The soldiers allegedly took advantage of this vulnerability, taking migrants away from the hotel under the pretense of “dates” and making sexual demands. One soldier in particular, Sgt. Deven Colon, is named in the lawsuit. He is accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a migrant, including buying her gifts, making sexual comments, and taking her to his home and other locations. The lawsuit claims that Colon promised to help the asylum seeker and her children, offering to secure them housing and support.
Another woman and her children were also allegedly taken from the hotel by Colon, who gave the mother a massage while flirting with her teenage daughter. The lawsuit states that other children at the hotel were warned to stay away from the soldiers involved, including one identified only as “Thomas” who reportedly groped a teenager.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul had tasked the National Guard with assisting in managing the state’s migrant crisis. Approximately 175,000 asylum seekers have been transported to the state as they await processing of their cases, prompting the deployment of 2,100 troops to support operations.
A spokesperson for the New York National Guard stated that the allegations against its personnel are being taken seriously and will be investigated. If the allegations are substantiated, the individuals could face administrative and/or disciplinary actions. Criminal activities will be referred to law enforcement for appropriate action.
These allegations of sexual exploitation highlight the vulnerabilities faced by asylum seekers and the need for safeguards to protect them. It is crucial for authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure accountability for those involved.