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Group Home Employee Charged with Sex Abuse in Columbia County
Andres Lima faces multiple felonies for alleged abuse of 14-year-old resident over 5-month period
Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:22pm
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The New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation has announced the arrest of Andres Lima, a 39-year-old group home employee, following an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse involving a 14-year-old female resident at the Kinderhof Group Home in Columbia County. Lima has been charged with multiple felonies, including 20 counts of second-degree rape and 15 counts of second-degree rape, as well as additional charges related to the abuse.
Why it matters
This case highlights the critical need for rigorous background checks, training, and oversight of employees at group homes and other facilities that care for vulnerable youth. The alleged abuse of a minor resident by a staff member is a serious breach of trust that can have lasting traumatic effects on the victim.
The details
According to the police investigation, the abuse occurred over a five-month period between March and August 2026. Lima, who was an employee at the Kinderhof Group Home in Columbia County, NY, is accused of sexually abusing a 14-year-old female resident through both vaginal and oral contact. He has been charged with a total of 35 felony counts, including 20 counts of second-degree rape and 15 counts of second-degree rape, as well as charges related to disseminating indecent material to minors, criminal possession of a sexual performance by a child, and endangering the welfare of a child.
- The investigation began in March 2026.
- The alleged abuse occurred over a five-month period between March and August 2026.
- Lima was arrested on April 12, 2026.
- Lima was arraigned on April 13, 2026 and remanded to the Columbia County Jail.
The players
Andres Lima
A 39-year-old employee of the Kinderhof Group Home in Columbia County, NY, who has been charged with multiple felonies related to the sexual abuse of a 14-year-old female resident.
Kinderhof Group Home
A group home facility in Columbia County, NY where the alleged abuse took place.
What they’re saying
“This case highlights the critical need for rigorous background checks, training, and oversight of employees at group homes and other facilities that care for vulnerable youth.”
— New York State Police
What’s next
Lima is being held on $35,000 cash, $70,000 bond, or $85,000 partially secured bond. The Columbia County District Attorney's Office will continue to prosecute the case.
The takeaway
This disturbing case underscores the importance of thorough vetting and monitoring of staff at group homes and other facilities entrusted with the care of minors. Stronger oversight and accountability measures are needed to prevent such abuses of power and protect vulnerable youth from harm.
