Former Philadelphia police officer sentenced for molesting teenager

A former Philadelphia police officer convicted of molesting a teenage girl over a period of two years was sentenced 11-1/2 to 23 months in prison Tuesday

Walter Sasse, 78, was reportedly released to serve house arrest until he files an appeal. Then, he is required to report to prison, Philly.com reports.

He was reportedly convicted on charges of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, aggravated indecent assault, and other offenses.

Sasse reportedly gave the girl horse lessons in 2010, eventually grooming her to perform sexual acts. After she ended the contact, Sasse threatened to kill himself and would follow her, according to the report.

Prosecutors asked for a sentence of five to 10 years, and the minimum sentencing guideline was four years. But Common Pleas Court Judge Steven Geroff reportedly cited Sasse’s public service, previous good behavior and letters from 24 friends who reportedly said they did not believe the allegations and trusted Sasse with their own children.