Paroled Child Killer Re-Arrested for Groping Incident in Westchester

Robert McCain, a felon with a criminal history including the murder of a teenage girl over 40 years ago, was recently taken into custody again following allegations of sexual misconduct. McCain, who was released on parole after multiple attempts, was accused of fondling a woman in an Upper Westchester County dog park on July 5.

The victim, a casual acquaintance, reported that McCain groped her while they were conversing. He was subsequently charged with misdemeanor forcible touching and held at the Westchester County jail on $25,000 bail. Authorities indicated that a parole violation warrant had been issued, and McCain remains in custody pending a revocation hearing.

In 1981, McCain was convicted of murdering 16-year-old Paula Bohovesky, a crime he committed alongside Richard LaBarbera. The murder involved brutal assault, sexual violence, and stabbing, resulting in Bohovesky’s death. Both men served time in prison; LaBarbera was released in 2020, while McCain’s parole was granted in 2021 despite protests from victims’ families and officials.

The tragic attack on Bohovesky occurred after she was seen walking home from her part-time job. McCain and LaBarbera ambushed her, threw pavement at her head, assaulted her sexually behind an empty house, and LaBarbera fatally stabbed her. Her body was discovered the next morning, revealing the extent of her injuries and the disturbing circumstances of her murder.

Relatives and community leaders expressed outrage over McCain’s release, criticizing parole authorities for their decisions. A close family friend noted that the victim’s mother was comforted knowing McCain was back behind bars, stressing the injustice of his early release. Lawmakers have called for accountability, with some demanding the resignation of parole board members, citing their role in enabling repeat offenders.

Despite claims from McCain’s attorney that the victim in the recent incident was not credible and that McCain has maintained employment and stability, critics argue that his history of violence and sexual misconduct underscores ongoing risks to public safety. The case has reignited debate over parole policies and the management of serious offenders in the state system.