New York Personal Injury Attorneys BlogRenee Hoberman Sentenced to 7 Years: A Stark Reminder of the Need for Vigilance in Protecting Children
A Long Island child therapist has been sentenced to seven years in federal prison after admitting to collecting and distributing some of the most disturbing forms of child sexual abuse material imaginable.
According to federal prosecutors, Renee “Rina” Hoberman, a licensed mental health counselor based in Plainview and working with children from infancy through age 17, used encrypted applications to upload and trade graphic videos depicting the sexual abuse of infants. Authorities stated that her online activity triggered multiple reports to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, ultimately leading to a federal investigation.
Homeland Security agents arrested Hoberman in October 2024. During a search of her home, investigators found additional illegal material and evidence of distribution across messaging platforms, including Telegram and Kik. She later pleaded guilty to collecting and distributing violent child sexual abuse material and surrendered her professional license.
The case represents a profound breach of trust. Mental health professionals working with children occupy positions of extraordinary responsibility. Families rely on them for safety, guidance, and protection—not exploitation.
When Abuse Involves a Trusted Professional
Cases involving therapists, teachers, clergy members, or other child-focused professionals are particularly devastating because they exploit:
- A child’s vulnerability
- A family’s trust
- Institutional authority
- Professional credentials
Even when the abuse involves digital exploitation rather than in-person contact, the harm is severe. The distribution of child sexual abuse material perpetuates ongoing trauma for victims and fuels global exploitation networks.
Federal prosecution and imprisonment are critical steps toward accountability. However, criminal sentences do not automatically address the long-term emotional, psychological, and financial harm suffered by victims and their families.
Civil Remedies for Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse
In addition to criminal prosecution, survivors may have the right to pursue civil claims against:
- The individual perpetrator
- Employers or institutions that failed to supervise
- Organizations that ignored warning signs
- Licensing bodies, in limited circumstances
Under New York law, survivors of child sexual abuse may have extended time to file civil claims, particularly following legislative reforms that expanded statutes of limitation for childhood sexual abuse cases.
Civil litigation can provide:
- Financial compensation for therapy and long-term care
- Accountability for institutional failures
- Public exposure of systemic breakdowns
- Protective measures to prevent future abuse
Reporting and Prevention
If you suspect a child is being abused:
- Contact law enforcement immediately
- Report online exploitation to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
- Seek immediate counseling and trauma-informed support
Early intervention can protect other children from harm.
Standing With Survivors
Child sexual abuse cases require attorneys experienced in handling sensitive, high-stakes litigation with discretion and resolve. These cases demand meticulous investigation, expert testimony, and the willingness to confront institutions that enabled abuse.
If your child has been harmed by a therapist, educator, or other trusted professional, speak with an experienced New York child sexual abuse lawyer immediately to understand your rights and the deadlines that may apply.
Confidential consultations are available.
Protecting children is not optional. It is a legal and moral obligation.
