Suspect In Assault On 3-Year-Old Girl In Ross Headed To Trial

A Washington County man charged with sexually assaulting a 3-year-old girl he was babysitting inside a Ross Township home has agreed to have his case waived directly to trial.

Jeffrey Howard Neel, 19, of California, PA, appeared Wednesday before Magistrate Richard Opiela. The magistrate agreed to reduce Neel's bond from $75,000 to $25,000 if Neel could be committed to a psychiatric hospital.

"I'm on medicine for depression and bipolar disorder," Neel told the judge.

Neel was also ordered to have no contact with the victim, her family, or to go anywhere near the home where the assault allegedly occurred.

Neel is charged with involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, sexual assault, indecent assault, endangering the welfare of children and corruption of minors.

Police said the incident occurred in early April, when Neel was babysitting several children for a brief time at a home in Ross.

In the criminal complaint, police said the girl's mother became suspicious on April 12, when the girl complained her "bum" hurt and began screaming and crying when asked if she had to go to the bathroom after being dropped off by her babysitter, who is Mr. Neel's sister-in-law.

Neel was questioned by police on May 23, when according to the criminal complaint, the girl into touching him inappropriately. Neel was arrested on June 1.

“This case should serve as a warning to all parents to be vigilant about whom they leave their children with, or in the care of anyone else,” said Ross Detective Brian Kohlhepp.

Kohlhepp also praised Pittsburgh Action Against Rape for the aid it provides to the victims.

“They have an advocate at every hearing,” he said. “They provide counsel to the victim and their family and help shepherd them through the whole process. They provide a tremendous service.”

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