A man from Tioga County has received a prison sentence ranging from eight to twenty years for sexually assaulting a child he knew and was trusted by. The announcement was made by Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday. The offender, Philip McCormick, aged 39 and a resident of Blossburg, pleaded guilty to several charges, including involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child under the age of 16, unlawful contact with a minor, and aggravated indecent assault of a person less than 16.
The abuse began when the victim was just 13 years old and reportedly lasted for approximately two years. Investigators revealed that McCormick had a close relationship with the child, which he exploited to gain access and manipulate her. The situation came to light when the victim confided in her mother about the assaults.
Dave Sunday emphasized the profound impact of the crimes, stating that they inflicted lasting harm on a child who viewed McCormick as a trustworthy adult. He added that his office is dedicated to ensuring accountability for child predators and supporting victims of abuse. As part of his sentence, McCormick is required to register as a Megan’s Law offender for life.
The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Rachael Coleman and Deputy Attorney General Andrew Biggins. Their efforts played a crucial role in bringing McCormick to justice and ensuring the safety of the community.
This case highlights the critical need for vigilance in protecting children from abuse and underscores the importance of reporting such crimes. The Attorney General’s office continues to advocate for victims and pursue justice against those who exploit their trust.
