Harrisburg, PA — Attorney General Michelle Henry announced that Luis Manuel Ayala-Velasquez, a 56-year-old Reading man, will serve 14 to 46 years in prison for repeatedly sexually assaulting a girl, starting over 20 years ago.
Ayala-Velasquez was arrested last year following a grand jury investigation that recommended sexual assault charges against more than 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. His sentencing took place Wednesday in Northampton County Court. Upon release, Ayala-Velasquez will be required to register as a sex offender for life.
Attorney General Henry praised the victims for their bravery in coming forward. “The courageous victims who came forward and told the grand jurors their horrific stories of abuse led to charges against predatory defendants,” she said. “The abuse in this case began decades ago, but the brave victim and the diligent efforts of OAG agents and attorneys ensured that justice was served and, at long last, the defendant was held accountable.”
The charges were a result of the 49th Investigating Grand Jury and were filed and prosecuted by the Office of Attorney General. The crimes occurred at Ayala-Velasquez’s home in Bethlehem, beginning around 2001 and continuing into the victim’s adulthood.
He assaulted the victim while she was sleeping.