June 17, 2015
Judge Gwendolyn N. Bright sentenced a 52-year-old Philadelphia man Wednesday to 25 to 50 years in prison for repeatedly raping a child he and his wife took into their home, District Attorney Seth Williams announced.
Miguel Laureano was convicted March 17 after a waiver trial on charges of rape of a child, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse of a child, aggravated indecent assault of a child, and unlawful contact with a minor.
Bright said Laureano's sentence is justified by his "lack of remorse and arrogance," adding that his seven years of sexual abuse amounted to "torture" for the victim.
Laureano began sexually abusing the child when his wife started babysitting her at age 4. The victim was abandoned by her mother at age 6 and moved in permanently with Laureano and his wife. Laureano escalated to raping her several times a week during the next five years.
The victim, who is now a college student, testified to the physical and emotional trauma she endures. She also testified about her journey to recovery and intentions to help end sexual violence.
“This young woman is not only courageous, but her story of incredible personal strength in triumphing over these horrible crimes and attending college is an inspiration. Judge Bright’s sentence ensures that this predator will never harm another child again,” Prosecutor Meghan Goddard said in a statement.
