Orange police have arrested the man who they say sexually assaulted a 15-year-old boy at the Racebrook Tract park last night.
According to police, Pascual Punsal, 72, of 578 Summit Drive in Orange, approached the boy around 7:51 p.m. on Thursday while walking in the park.
Police said the victim was on the boardwalk looking for a place to fish when Punsal walked past and greeted him. Two minutes later, Punsal returned and asked to kiss the boy, grabbing his genitals, police said.
The boy said no, pushed Punsal and ran away.
Authorities said they recognized Punsal from the victim’s description and found the suspect at his home on Summit Drive.
Punsal was arrested and charged with fourth-degree sexual assault, risk of injury to a minor and breach of peace. He was released after posting a $25,000 bond, according to police.
Punsal is due in Derby Superior Court on Aug. 15.
Officers said the recreation area, near Racebrook Road and Derby Avenue, is designated for public use and that police presence will increase as a result of the incident.
Photo Credit: Orange Police Department