HARRISBURG, PA — Luis Manuel Ayala-Velasquez, 56, of Reading, will serve 14 to 46 years in prison for the repeated sexual assaults of a girl, which began more than two decades ago. Attorney General Michelle Henry announced his sentencing on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Northampton County Court.
Ayala-Velasquez was arrested last year following a grand jury investigation that recommended sexual assault charges against over a dozen members of the Jehovah’s Witnesses faith. He pleaded guilty earlier this year to five felony counts, including the rape of an unconscious person.
The crimes occurred at Ayala-Velasquez’s home in Bethlehem, starting around 2001 when the victim was a minor and continuing into her adulthood. He assaulted her while she slept.
Attorney General Henry praised the victims who came forward, stating, “The courageous victims who told the grand jurors their horrific stories of abuse led to charges against predatory defendants.” She credited the diligent efforts of the Office of Attorney General (OAG) agents and attorneys for ensuring justice.
Following his release from prison, Ayala-Velasquez must register as a sex offender for life. Senior Deputy Attorney General Michelle Laucella prosecuted the case, which stemmed from the 49th Investigating Grand Jury’s findings.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and Microsoft Start.