Judge William Carlucci, on Jan. 13, agreed that a criminal defendant should be eligible for bail – which was posted the next day. Per the PA Rules of Criminal Procedure, Rule 523, there are 10 relevant factors to consider when deciding bail for a defendant. Those factors include (1) the nature of the offense charged and any mitigating or aggravating factors that may bear upon the likelihood of conviction and possible penalty; additionally, (8) the defendant’s prior criminal record seems pertinent to this case.

Regarding factor one, this defendant was charged with Rape – Unconscious Victim, Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse – Person Unconscious and Indecent Assault – Person Unconscious for his actions on Sept. 26, 2024. The first two counts are first degree felonies – the most serious type of sexual offense under PA law; furthermore, the unconsciousness of the victim seems to qualify as an aggravating factor stressing the truly predatory nature of the alleged offenses.

Concerning factor eight, the defendant was charged with Indecent Assault – Forcible Compulsion, Indecent Assault – Person with Mental Disability, Indecent Assault without Consent of Other, Simple Assault, Disorderly Conduct and Harassment for his actions on May 17, 2024 in Sullivan County. His alleged targeting of those most vulnerable, as evidenced by the victim’s mental disability and unconscious state, was first revealed in this case. Ultimately, he pled guilty to one offense – indecent assault without consent of other – and is awaiting sentencing. He also has a 2023 conviction for possessing a loaded firearm in a vehicle without a license (carry/conceal permit) and a 1988 conviction for DUI.

I believe the defendant is a violent sexual predator who exploits defenseless women. His vicious disregard for those he harms has been highlighted, on two separate occasions, by his habit of waiting to sexually assault his victims at a time when they are most susceptible. More specifically, he waits until his victims are unconscious guaranteeing the fulfillment of his heinous sexual desires. Combining the animalistic nature of his sex offenses, his history of bad decisions related to firearms, and his alcohol abuse seems to satisfy the threshold for denying bail. District Judge Solomon thought such denial was appropriate; however, it comes as no surprise that Judge Carlucci, yet again, leaves the citizens of Lycoming County questioning his qualifications to serve on the bench. His arrogance and decision making has people inside and outside of the courthouse shaking their heads. We can only hope his most recent erroneous ruling doesn’t result in additional harm to another innocent victim.

BUCK WEAVER

Williamsport

Submitted by Virtual Newsroom