A Syracuse man arrested in a 2024 child sex sting in Auburn has been convicted by a Cayuga County jury.
District Attorney Brittany Grome Antonacci announced Friday that 43-year-old Junayd Abdulkhafid was found guilty of second-degree attempted criminal sexual act.
Abdulkhafid was arrested at the Melone Village apartment complex in August 2024 after investigators say he showed up to pay for sex with what he believed was a 14-year-old girl. The sting was part of a larger child sexual exploitation investigation that resulted in two other arrests and one suspect taking his own life in front of officers.
The case involved the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office, Auburn Police Department, New York State Police, the FBI, and the DA’s office.
Abdulkhafid faces up to four years in prison and 10 years of post-release supervision. Sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 18.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
