Assault Suspect Fights to Have Confession Thrown Out

HOLLIDAYSBURG, BLAIR COUNTY--- Michael Crotsley, 25, said he was drunk and depressed when he confessed to an Altoona detective that he assaulted a Hollidaysburg woman in August 2007.  Crotsley's attorney argued the confession should not be allowed into the trial because it does not meet the legal standard.  District Attorney Richard Consiglio says the detective continued to remind Crotsley of his right to remain silent and right to an attorney, but Crotsley continued to talk.

Crotsley is accused of sexually assaulting, beating, and robbing the woman last year.  He was part of a yard crew working at the woman’s house on August 31, 2007.  He later returned to her home, threw a rock through a window, and allegedly attacked the woman in bed.  Police say Crotsley beat the woman for hours, sexually assaulted her, and then forced her at knifepoint to take him to an ATM.  He allegedly made her withdraw a total of $1,000.

President Judge Jolene Kopriva said she will soon decide on the admissibility of the confession.

Crotsley is facing numerous charges including rape, robbery, burglary, and kidnapping.