The Ramapo Central community’s been talking for weeks about a possible scandal involving sex, drugs and alcohol, with minors in the mix.
To probably no one’s surprise anymore, an indictment unsealed this morning charges Beth Modica with one count of third-degree rape and four counts of third-degree criminal sexual assault. She also faces 30 misdemeanor charges: four counts of third-degree sexual abuse and 26 counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
Because it’s not a surprise doesn’t mean it isn’t a shock.
The case will certainly work its way through the legal system slower than it did through the rumor mill. That, one would hope, would ensure much more thoughtful examination of the situation, and the charges, than the other path has.
Plenty of us will be second-guessing the legal system, speculating on motives, and playing psychologist. While we dabble in those, let’s remember that families, young people, neighbors and friends are vulnerable here. Let’s remember that though these are serious accusations of behavior that violates the law, and basic trust, they are just that, accusations.
Some will look for a bigger morality tale of middle-class suburban life. Some will jump to conclusions. Some will deny. Some will blame, blame, blame.
Some of the rumors and comments that will come out contain information about people that will be none of our business (and, as we’ve found with plenty of what we’ve heard in the last couple weeks, not true).
This is the tough stuff. It’s ugly. It’s complicated. In the end, though, the community affected will likely change, but it is that same community that will get many through the ugliness.