In re Doe

This hearing presents an interpretation of subdivision (b) of section 152 of the Family Court Act and whether a finding can be made against the respondents based upon the unsworn testimony of the petitioners (aged seven and eight years). The issue appears to be one of first impression.

The petition against “ John Doe ” alleges that on August 15, 1964 at about 3:00 p.m., at 2178 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, the respondent acting with “James Cole” did forcibly compel “Rudolph Gray”, age eight, and “Richard Black”, age seven, to accompany them to the alleyway of 2178 Atlantic Avenue and…