Johnstown man accused of having sex with young girls

Village police lodged felony charges Wednesday against a Fulton County man accused of having sexual contact with two young girls.

Peter L. Brownell, 18, of State Route 29, Johnstown, was charged with second-degree rape and second-degree criminal sexual act, both felonies, as well as misdemeanor counts of forcible touching and second-degree sexual abuse, police said.

Police Chief William J. Beevers said the investigation began after the 12-year-old victim reported possible sex abuse to a parent and further investigation led to allegations the 14-year-old was victimized.

Brownell was arraigned and sent to the Montgomery County jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond.

Police are unsure if more victims exist, and are asking people with information on Brownell to call the department at 673-3111.