Pocono News Section

Man Sentenced for Sexually Corrupting Young Girls

Man Sentenced for Sexually Corrupting Young Girls - Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 5:32PM EST

Reported by: Laurie Monteforte
Tuesday, Mar 17, 2009 @ 05:32pm EST
STROUDSBURG, MONROE COUNTY- Tuesday morning a judge sentenced a former Monroe County Courthouse worker for molesting two pre teen girls. Investigators said Michael Grego molested and abused the girls at his Coolbaugh Township home over several months in 2006. A jury convicted him in November.

Michael Grego will now spend between 11 and 24 years in prison. Assistant District Attorney Michael Rakaczewski said, "Based on his age, that's almost a life sentence."

Grego is 55 years old. He was convicted of sexually corrupting two preteen girls who he was supposed to be babysitting. The girls told investigators Grego forced them to rub condiments on his body, watch pornography, and look at him in the shower. They also say he sometimes tied them up or played games involving a gun. "The facts and the allegations in this case are some of the most bizarre, sick and perverted that I've dealt with in dealing with any of these cases," said Rakaczewski.

Grego's attorneys said the sentence could have been lighter because he had no prior record. They are also unhappy that he will have to register as a sex offender. Defense Attorney Thomas Pavlinic said, "They subject people to vigilante acts and you really have no freedom of movement."

The victims had a chance to speak to the judge and to Grego. One of them started to read her statement but she couldn't get through it. She broke down in tears and ran out of the courtroom. Part of the statement said "My mom died last year and I pretty much think she died from all the stress."

No matter how long Grego spends behind bars, the victims could face a lifetime of confusion and sadness.

Grego's attorneys say they are in the process of an appeal.