Schenectady

A 21-year-old man was arrested and charged by Schenectady Police earlier this week for allegedly breaking into two homes and masturbating near his victims.

Luis Vargas, Jr., — on what appears to be two separate instances in June and July 2014 — allegedly broke in two Schenectady residences at about 4:30 a.m. each time and began to perform a lewd act over his victims, who were identified as children, while they were sleeping, according to a criminal complaint.

In the June instance, Vargas entered the home, went over to the living room couch where children were sleeping and masturbated. Vargas also allegedly attempted sexual contact with the sleeping victim and other sleeping small children, according to the complaint. A month later, Vargas entered through an unlocked bedroom window and masturbated in the bedroom while the victim, who was identified as a child, was present, according to court records.

In each instance, Vargas allegedly left behind DNA and physical evidence, which the police recovered. Police used that evidence as well as oral and written statements from Vargas in the investigation, according to the complaint. Vargas is charged with two felonies and two misdemeanors related to sexual abuse, burglary and endangering the welfare of a child, according to the complaint.

The police said little about the investigation. Police spokesman Lt. Mark McCracken said the grand jury has yet to indict Vargas. He also said the investigation is still open and more charges may be filed.

dclark@timesunion.com • 518-454-5008 • @DartDClark