A months-long investigation in Seneca Falls has led to new felony rape charges against a local man already behind bars. Police say the case involves a victim under the age of 15 and multiple incidents.
Seneca Falls police charged a 24-year-old Walter Wise on Jan. 20 with three counts of rape in the second degree. Investigators allege he had sexual intercourse with a minor on at least three occasions within the town.
Police began investigating the case in December after receiving information about the alleged incidents. Officers determined the sexual acts involved a victim younger than 15 years old, which led to the felony charges.
He was already in custody on other charges connected to the case when police filed the new charges. He was arraigned and held, and a court issued an order of protection as part of the proceedings.
The investigation remains ongoing. Wise is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.


