AUBURN -- A Bridgeport man pleaded not guilty in Cayuga County Court Tuesday to allegations of sexual abuse.

Douglas Clarkson, 60, of 7856 MacArthur Blvd., faces an indictment charging him with 23 felony counts of first-degree sexual abuse, as well as a felony charge of second-degree sexual conduct against a child and two misdemeanor counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

The indictment alleges that Clarkson inappropriately touched a child on numerous occasions between October 2006 and February 2007. During that time, the alleged victim turned 9 years old.

Defense attorney Jethro Loftus said his client intends to take the case to trial.

According to Chief Assistant District Attorney Jon Budelmann, who is prosecuting the case, New York State Police obtained DNA evidence during the investigation. Budelmann said the prosecution is ready for trial.

Judge Mark Fandrich will hear motions on the case Dec. 11.

Clarkson initially posted $5,000 cash bail after his arrest, but Fandrich raised the bail amount Tuesday to $10,000 cash, $20,000 bond.

For more, read Wednesday's Citizen