On Monday, former Bethlehem City Police officer Costas Alestas was sentenced to 10-20 years in state prison after pleading guilty to multiple serious offenses involving middle school students.
The judge cited the severity of the crimes and the need for public protection.
Alestas had served as a school resource officer at East Hills Middle School, a position that placed him in close contact with students.
His role included supervising school activities and maintaining safety within the school environment.
According to court documents, Alestas sexually assaulted a student on multiple occasions in various locations, including his office at the school.
He also allegedly took an upskirt video of another student, which police located on his cell phone.
On May 1, 2024, the Bethlehem City Police Department received a report alleging inappropriate contact between Alestas and a female student.
Following the notification, Alestas was placed on administrative leave while investigators reviewed cell phone records that revealed an ongoing sexual relationship with the student and evidence of the recorded video.
The charges brought against Alestas include Involuntary Deviate Sexual Assault against a person less than 16-years-old, classified as a first-degree felony, and Invasion of Privacy, a third-degree misdemeanor.
The first-degree felony carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years, while the third-degree misdemeanor can add additional penalties.
On Monday, Alestas entered a guilty plea to both charges, acknowledging the illegal nature of his conduct.
His guilty plea was entered in the presence of the court and confirmed the admissions of wrongdoing.
The judge imposed a prison term of 10-20 years, reflecting the gravity of the offenses and the impact on the victims.
The judge emphasized the need for accountability and the protection of vulnerable students.
In addition to the prison sentence, Alestas will be required to register as a sexually violent predator for the remainder of his life, a condition that imposes ongoing monitoring and restrictions.
The lifelong registration will subject Alestas to regular reporting and may restrict his movements and employment opportunities.
The case has raised concerns within the Bethlehem community about the safety of students and the oversight of school resource officers.
School officials have announced plans to review protocols and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.
Key Takeaways
- Former officer Costas Alestas sentenced to 10-20 years for sexual assault and privacy violations involving middle school students.
- He pleaded guilty to a first-degree felony and a third-degree misdemeanor.
- Lifetime registration as a sexually violent predator will impose ongoing monitoring.
The sentencing of Costas Alestas serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities entrusted to law enforcement officers and the severe consequences of violating that trust.
The case underscores the importance of rigorous oversight and the swift action required when misconduct is uncovered.
