(Le Mars) — The Craig man who plead guilty on four counts of sexual exploitation and invasion of privacy has been sentenced to ten years in prison. Judge Jeff Neary handed down the sentence to 66 year old James Grasz Friday morning at the Plymouth County District Court. The episode stems back to April of last year when neighbors had found out that Grasz had been secretly video taping people while they were dressing and undressing. Grasz took the opportunity to address the court prior to his sentencing.
Plymouth County Attorney Darrin Raymond had read the statements of several of the victims, but identified them only as Jane Doe #1…Jane Doe#2…and so on. Each of the victims’ testimonies indicated how they were shocked, embarrassed, and even ashamed from learning of the secret video recordings that had been made by the defendant James Grasz during the course of several years. Grasz’ defense attorney, David Gill, had asked for probation for his client, saying he had never had any previous criminal history, and that upon his arrest, Grasz had been cooperative with authorities. Defense attorney Gill also cited Grasz was an Air Force veteran, and should be given consideration for his service to this nation. Judge Neary said he considered all factors prior to pronouncing the sentence.
Judge Neary then sentenced Grasz the maximum amount of time, but said that all four felony charges and the one misdemeanor charge will be served concurrently, meaning Grasz will be placed in prison for ten years.
Judge Neary continued with his sentencing of Grasz.
Upon his release, Grasz has been ordered to register as a sexual offender for the remaining years of his life. Grasz is to report to Plymouth County Authorities on March 17th to begin his prison term.
