John Klimkiewicz - Child Molester heads to prison

In court, the victim's mother said her son suffers from severe depression and added, "I don't have any pity for John. He took advantage of my child and that's unforgivable."

A former high school drama director is on his way to state prison for molesting a young boy.

Prosecutors said John Klimkiewicz, formerly of Simpson, deserves the six to 18 years he will spend in prison. The convicted sex offender was emotional as he apologized for his crimes but it was the victim's family who spoke most about the pain he has caused.

The victim's family said as a young boy their son trusted John Klimkiewicz and looked up to him. The man often came into their home and sat at their table as if nothing had gone on. He was part of their lives.

They said he violated that trust as he repeatedly violated their son.

Klimkiewicz walked into the Lackawanna County courthouse without a word on his way to be sentenced for repeatedly molesting a young boy.

He pleaded guilty to the charges in October. The crime was involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a boy under age 16, or rape of a child.

Choked up in court, the 44-year-old man said, "I apologize as best I can. I know that's water under the bridge. I at least have to make that effort and hope at some point for forgiveness."

"He could have said and should have said so much more. The family was in the courtroom. He had the opportunity. He has to know how he impacted this family and in particular the life of this one boy," said Assistant District Attorney Michelle Olshefski.

In court, the victim's mother said her son suffers from severe depression and added, "I don't have any pity for John. He took advantage of my child and that's unforgivable."

Klimkiewicz is a former drama director at Carbondale and Forest City High Schools and used to work in the production departments at WYOU and at WOLF TV.

Judge Vito Geroulo described Klimkiewicz as a man with a college education and a trained mind, saying there should have been self reflection, and that makes this even more evil.

State law requires a minimum of five years in prison but the judge decided on a term well over that, sentencing Klimkiewicz to six to 18 years.

He must register for life as a sexually violent predator under Megan's Law. He was also ordered to pay $2,500 to set up a counseling fund for the victimized family.

Klimkliewicz's lawyer said in court there is another side to this man as well. He mentioned his community involvement, saying he has been active with the historical society and with his church.

The victim's family said John Klimkiewicz got what he deserved