Former Yates legislator sentenced to probation in sex abuse case

In a recent court decision, former Yates County legislator John “Jack” Clancy received a sentence of 10 years of probation, avoiding jail time, after pleading guilty to first-degree attempted sexual abuse. Officials confirmed Clancy’s sentencing on this week by Acting County Judge Barry Porsch. Clancy, aged 81, had entered a guilty plea last October to the charge, classified as a class E felony.

Accompanying his probation, Clancy is mandated to register as a sex offender. A further hearing is set for March 10 to determine the specific level of his offender status. The conviction stems from an incident where Clancy was accused of engaging in sexual contact with a person who was incapable of giving consent, reported to have been asleep at the time.

Clancy, a prominent figure in the 1970s as a county legislator and later a local business owner, held significant roles including chairman of the county Republican Committee and commissioner of Finger Lakes state parks. His conviction has led to significant repercussions, reflecting a serious breach of trust and legal boundaries.