MICHAEL LESKO

GREATER CINCINNATI THERAPIST PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO SEX CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN, LOCAL12.COM

Hamilton, OH - A therapist appeared in court on Wednesday on 21 counts, including rape, gross sexual imposition, and having unlawful conduct with a minor. Prosecutors say Michael Lesko used his job as a therapist to groom his five young victims. "Mr. Lesko would start grooming his victims by mentoring them, and he would be helping their families to care for the children or void their financial hardships. Then he would have sexual contact and conduct with his victims. When the newest victim made a police report, Mr. Lesko did flee to Georgia, where his parents live, and was residing there until he was arrested on his warrant," said Prosecutor Jackie Welp. He pleaded not guilty to all 21 counts during his arraignment. Police arrested Lesko in Georgia, where he was living with his parents, but his attorney, Ryan Nelson, said that Lesko planned to turn himself in. "When the police report was initially filed earlier this year, before he moved down to Georgia with his parents, he was married at the time. He's still married but is separated from his wife. Clearly, this caused a difficulty in their relationship, which is why he went down to live with his parents. He did retain counsel and vents with intent to return. It was never his intent to flee," Nelson said. Judge Michael Oster ordered him held on a $500,000 bond. If he makes that, he must wear an ankle monitor, remain in the area, and have no contact with his accusers. He must also agree not to counsel anyone under the age of 18 until the charges are resolved.