Accused Dutchess County Legislator Headed to Trial

Dutchess County Legislator, 37-year-old Michael N. Kelsey, of Salt Point has been accused of allegedly sexually abusing two Boy Scouts last summer while leading a Boy Scout troop from Fishkill on a week long, 50-mile hike and outdoor excursion and staying at the Massawepie Scout Camp on Massawepie Lake, according to the Watertown Daily Times.

He pleaded not guilty on July 16 in County Court to one count of first-degree sexual abuse and one count of first-degree attempted sexual assault, both felonies. According to the Watertown Daily Times, he was also indicted on one count of forcible touching and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, all misdemeanors.

Kelsey appeared on Monday in the St. Lawrence County Court and, according to the Watertown Daily Times, stated that he had fired his attorney and is representing himself. Kelsey is an attorney. His case is now on the court calendar. He is currently a Republican Dutchess County Legislator and represents Amenia, Washington, and Pleasant Valley in District 25. He was suspended from the Boy Scouts in October.