Hearing Held For Man Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Boy At YMCA
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – The attorney for a Butler County man charged with sexually assaulting a boy at the local YMCA is planning the man's defense.
Meanwhile, the suspect admits that the arrest is his chance to get help.
Jason Taylor, 35, is no stranger to police, except he's never been charged with anything this serious. Monday was supposed to be the first of many court appearances for Taylor on charges connected to the attack of a 12-year-old boy at the Butler YMCA.
Taylor says he has mental health issues, but could not afford treatment.
He is accused of grabbing the boy from behind by the throat, putting a knife to his head and forcing him into the bathroom. He then allegedly took the boy into a bathroom stall, telling him to be quiet. Police say Taylor tried to undress the boy while kissing and fondling him.
The boy began screaming for help when someone entered the bathroom. Taylor was then grabbed by several patrons and staff and held until police arrived.
"I think that – I don't want to go too far into the mental health aspect of it – I think my goal is to see what we can do to defend the charges," said public defender Joe Smith. "And then whatever help I can l line up for him, mental health or treatment of some kind, I'll do what I can."
People in the community were outraged by what happened to the young boy.
There is also speculation that the victim will have to testify.
Jason Taylor remains jailed on charges of attempted rape and indecent assault. He is being held at the Butler County Prison on $150,000 bond.
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