Psychologist Michael Degilio to stand trial for sex crime involving patient

April 9, 2010

A psychologist from Carbon County faced the woman Friday who said she was forced to preform a sex act on him.

A magisterial district judge decided there was enough evidence against Michael Degileo to face trial.

"It wasn't a surprise. The burden at a preliminary hearing is lower than at trial but we got what we needed, was a look at the alleged victim and see how she testified and heard her testimony," said defense attorney John Waldron.

The 40-year-old mother from Lehighton testified she suffered a nervous breakdown, was depressed and had suicidal thoughts when a mental hospital referred her to psychologist Degileo for treatment.

The woman testified during an office visit Degileo kissed her, told her he loved women and sex and forced her to preform a sex act on him.

"She was claiming these things happened and I took the position today, if they did happen she consented," said Waldron. He added it's not a question of whether or not Degileo crossed the professional line. He explained that is a different issue and it's not criminal.

Prosecutors would not talk publicly about their case.

Michael Degileo's next appearance will be in May at the Carbon County courthouse. He has surrendered his license to practice and a decision on whether he will ever be able to practice will be decided after the court case.

Source: Bob Reynolds, "Psychologist Ordered to Trial for Sex Crimes, WNEP-TV 16 (Moosic, Pennsylvania), April 9, 2010.