News  Berkshire District Attorney’s Office Secures State Prison Sentence For 2003 Sexual Assault

BERKSHIRE COUNTY — A man who fled from prosecution a decade ago will serve eight to 10 years in State Prison for sexually assaulting two children.

The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office secured the conviction of Juan Harry, 54, on Friday on three counts of indecent assault and battery on a child and one count of rape of a child. Judge John Agostini sentenced Harry to serve eight to 10 years in State Prison, aligning with state sentencing recommendations.

The North Adams Police Department arrested Harry for sexually assaulting two 11-year-old girls in 2003. Harry fled the area on the first day the Court expected to begin the trial in 2010.

In August of this year, Nassau County, N.Y. Police arrested Harry on the default warrant.

“We are glad to finally bring the victims, now adult women who waited a long time for this day, some closure with this lengthy sentence. The District Attorney’s Office will always fight for victims regardless of how long it takes,” District Attorney Andrea Harrington said.

“I thank the North Adams Police and the multi-disciplinary team who investigated this case and gave us enough evidence to secure a conviction. I thank the courageous victims for reliving these horrific events and sharing their powerful victim witness statements with the Court.”

Berkshire District Attorney Andrea Harrington’s office serves all 32 cities and towns in Berkshire County. The office represents the Commonwealth in more than 7,500 criminal cases per year in Berkshire Superior Court, three district courts, three juvenile courts, Massachusetts Appeals Court, and Supreme Judicial Court. The office works closely with the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office, the Berkshire Law Enforcement Task Force, and collaborates with local police departments across the county. A dedicated staff of more than 50 prioritizes public safety, empowering victims and witnesses through services and support, and building a safe community for everyone and especially the most vulnerable.