Attorney: Client With Asperger's Syndrome Shouldn't Get Jail For Sexual Abuse

A man who sexually abused a 12-year-old boy he met on Xbox Live was sentenced to jail.  Richard Kretovic was sentenced to 6 months in The Monroe County Jail.  Kretovic's attorney believes the sentence defies logic and is unnecessary.  Kretovic, 20,  has been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome.  "I have a developmentally disabled client.  I have no doubt his emotional maturity was at the same level as the victim," said Stephen Leonardo. "We have treatment courts to address a number of issues, but sadly they haven't gone far enough because this young man is going to spend the next 6 months in jail."

Kretovic chatted with the victim for three months on XBox Live.  Then, invited the boy to his house where the child was sexually abused.  "He knew what he was doing.  He knew it was wrong," said Monroe County Assistant District Attorney Kyle Rossi. "He took steps to try to cover up what he did and silence the victim."   Rossi says Kretovic could have been charged with a Class A Felony which carried a possible life sentence.  However, The Monroe County District Attorney's Office reduced the charge and offered a plea deal.  In addition, Kretovic will be held in a special wing of the jail and continue therapy.  "This is an important step in making him realize he will be punished if this happens again," said Rossi. 

Prosecutors fear Kretovic could be a danger in the future.  He will be on probation for 10 years and must register as a sex offender.  "God forbid this happens again.  We couldn't look at a parent and say we knew about this and let him go," said Rossi.