Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley and Chelsea Police Chief Brian Kyes announced today that criminal charges have been filed and an investigation is underway following an alleged sexual assault involving a child at a Chelsea youth center during the summer months.
Vriky Santos (D.O.B. 8/2/91), a Chelsea resident, faces an aggravated rape charge in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a pre-teen boy at Explorer Post 109, which operates within the Chelsea Community Fitness Center on Shurtleff Street. The incident occurred in mid-July, and Santos served as a volunteer advisor at the post.
During his arraignment today in Chelsea District Court, Assistant District Attorney Ursula Knight sought $50,000 cash bail along with conditions requiring Santos to maintain distance from all children under 16, wear a GPS tracking device, and surrender any passport or travel documents should he post bail. Judge Stephen Abany set bail at $10,000 cash and ordered the recommended release conditions.
The investigation is being conducted by Chelsea Police sexual assault detectives and prosecutors from the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Child Protection Unit, who are also examining whether additional incidents may have occurred.
Authorities are urging parents and guardians—whether or not their children use the community center—to create an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their concerns and experiences, knowing they will be believed and supported without facing consequences.
“Parenting is a tough enough job without being a forensic interviewer, too” Conley said. “We don’t want children feeling pressure to disclose abuse. We want them to feel comfortable telling the truth, even if it seems scary or embarrassing to them at first.”
“Chelsea Police and Suffolk prosecutors have extensive training and can interview kids sensitively and appropriately about cases like this one,” Kyes said. “If you suspect abuse, you don’t have to push them for answers. You can call us for help.”
The charged incident came to light when the victim disclosed the abuse to peers and subsequently to staff at a Chelsea school. The school notified Chelsea Police, prompting interviews with the boy, his mother, and Santos. Santos was arrested that evening, and the scene was secured pending a search warrant. Explorer Post 109 has agreed to remain closed during the search warrant execution and investigation.
Individuals with information about the incident or who wish to report child abuse in Suffolk County may contact the DA’s Child Protection Unit at 617-619-4300 or Chelsea Police detectives at 617-466-4843.
Kate Lagana serves as the victim-witness advocate assigned by the DA’s office. Santos is represented by attorney Terry Slater and is scheduled to return to court on Oct. 10.