A religious leader at a mosque in Queens, New York, has been arrested on charges of sexually abusing young girls within the premises of the place of worship. Tajul Islam, 55, was taken into custody on Monday, April 27, by the Queens Child Abuse Squad, according to the New York Police Department (NYPD).
Allegations of Abuse
Islam faces multiple charges, including sexual abuse, forcible touching, and unlawfully dealing with a child. The charges stem from a series of alleged incidents that occurred over a week in April. According to a criminal complaint obtained by QNS, Islam allegedly approached a 10-year-old girl inside the storefront mosque, grabbed her breast, and touched her inner thigh.
The cleric, who also resides at the mosque, is accused of committing a similar act on the same day of his arrest. He allegedly approached and groped another 10-year-old girl, leading to his arrest approximately four hours after the incident.
Legal Proceedings
Islam was arraigned on Tuesday and entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. Judge Sharifa Nasser-Cuellar ordered him held on $25,000 bail and issued temporary orders of protection. Court records indicate the conditions of his release.
Appeal for Additional Victims
The NYPD is urging any other potential victims or individuals with information about these incidents to come forward. They can contact the NYPD's Sex Crimes Hotline to provide details or report similar occurrences.
The case has shocked the local community, as the accused held a position of trust as a religious leader. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure justice for the victims.
