March 26, 2026
Prepared by: D/Sgt. Gina Laferrera
Details: On January 5, 2026 Southampton Town Police Detectives began an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse of a child during the summer of 2024. An extensive investigation was conducted which resulted in the arrest of Leon Felipe Higuita, age 40, of Riverhead, New York on March 26, 2026. He was charged with Criminal Sexual Act 1st-Victim Less Than 11 Years old (felony) and Endangering the Welfare of a Child (misdemeanor). He was processed at Southampton Town Police Headquarters and held overnight for morning arraignment.
Southampton Town Police and ask that anyone with information on any criminal activity call the Southampton Town Police at 631-728-5000, the Southampton Town Detective Unit at 631-702-2230, or the Crime Hotline at 631-728-3454. All calls will be kept confidential. You may also email us at crimetips@southamptontownny.gov.
For further information please contact D/Sgt. Laferrera at glaferrera@southamptontownny.gov or 631-702-2238.
Public Information can also be located on the Police Department's website at www.southamptontownnypolice.gov/PublicInfo [https://southamptontownnypolice.gov/1306/Public-Information]
Southampton Town Police Department Police Headquarters: 110 Old Riverhead Road, Hampton Bays, NY 11946Phone: 631-728-5000 | Fax: 631-728-5440 www.southamptontownnypolice.gov [https://www.southamptontownnypolice.gov/] Emergency: 911
