Richard T. Balsavage - Repeat Sex Offender - Whining Pedophile Appeals "Long" Sentence and gets it increased instead

"You failed miserably at the very light sentence that was imposed originally"

A pedophile and drug abuser who unsuccessfully appealed a state prison sentence he felt was too lengthy saw his sentence increased sevenfold in Berks County Court today.

Richard T. Balsavage, 28, whose last known address was in the 400 block of Klines Corner Road, Longswamp Township, was sentenced by Judge Stephen B. Lieberman to 24½ to 49 years in state prison.

Balsavage pleaded guilty and initially was sentenced by Judge Jeffrey K. Sprecher in 2005 to nine to 23 months in county prison followed by three years of probation for taking pornographic photographs of a 2-year-old Kutztown boy.

In 2007, Lieberman increased that sentence to 42 months to three years in state prison followed by 42 years of probation when Balsavage violated the terms of his probation by continuing to possess child pornography.

State Superior Court denied Balsavage's appeal of that sentence.

In another round of appeals, Balsavage asked Lieberman to resentence him, saying the sentence was too long and that he was not given an opportunity to speak at his last hearing.

Lieberman said he granted the request after confirming that he did not ask Balsavage if he wanted to address the court.

Balsavage told Lieberman that he has taken full responsibility for his actions.

"I realize I could never obtain forgiveness or forgive myself," he said. "I am a stronger and better person today. I am truly sorry for the wrong I committed in the past."

Lieberman said Balsavage refused to cooperate with the state Sexual Offenders Assessment Board when he was first sentenced in 2005, so Balsavage was not ruled to be a sexually violent predator.

However, later Balsavage admitted during his treatment that he had sexually abused at least 13 children, including 10 victims 5 or younger and one 1-year-old, Lieberman said.

Balsavage also admitted abusing alcohol, marijuana, hallucinogens, methamphetamine, cocaine and crack cocaine, Lieberman said.

"You failed miserably at the very light sentence that was imposed originally," Lieberman said. "It is this court's duty to offer the utmost protection for those least able to watch out for themselves. That would certain include infants and toddlers. A very lengthy resentencing is appropriate."

"25% of all sex offenders re-offend within 15 years"
.........Sarah Tofte