Tioga County Man Sentenced to 8-20 Years for Child Sexual Assault

A man from Tioga County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to eight to twenty years in state prison for the sexual assault of a minor. Philip McCormick, aged 39, of Blossburg, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child under 16, unlawful contact with a minor, and aggravated indecent assault against a person less than 16 years old. The announcement was made by Attorney General Dave Sunday.

The abuse began when the victim was just 13 years old and reportedly lasted for approximately two years. Investigators revealed that McCormick had a close relationship with the victim, which he exploited to gain access to her. The situation came to light when the victim bravely disclosed the incidents to her mother.

Legal Consequences and Impact on Victim

In addition to the prison sentence, McCormick is mandated to register as a Megan’s Law offender for the remainder of his life. Attorney General Sunday emphasized the lasting harm inflicted on the victim, who had viewed McCormick as a trustworthy adult. He reiterated the commitment of his office to hold child predators accountable and to advocate for the victims of such abuse.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Rachael Coleman and Deputy Attorney General Andrew Biggins, who worked diligently to ensure justice for the victim. Their efforts reflect a broader commitment to addressing child sexual abuse within the state.

Community Response and Ongoing Advocacy

The handling of this case has garnered attention in the community, highlighting the need for vigilance against child exploitation. Local agencies and advocacy groups are urged to continue their work in supporting victims and raising awareness about the signs of abuse.

As the legal proceedings conclude, the focus now shifts to prevention strategies and providing support for those affected by similar crimes. Victims and their families are encouraged to seek help and resources available to them, as the community strengthens its resolve against child predation.

For further updates on this case and similar stories in the area, stay informed through local news channels and advocacy organizations.