Image courtesy of Butler County Sheriff’s Office
Michael Lesko, a former social worker from West Chester Township, Ohio, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to six counts of rape and one count of gross sexual imposition. His actions spanned over 15 years, beginning in 2008.
Lesko’s Abuse of Vulnerable Children
Lesko holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) and is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervision (LISW-S). Lesko previously worked as a social services manager at UC Health, a therapist at Family Solutions of Ohio, and a therapist at Beckett Springs, a behavioral health hospital in Ohio. Additionally, he operated a private counseling service, Embrace Life Counseling, LLC, out of West Chester, Ohio.
Investigations into Lesko’s activities revealed that he built relationships with multiple victims, some of whom were under the age of 13. Later, he exploited those relationships for sexual abuse. These crimes occurred over 15 years, with the abuse spanning Butler, Warren, and Montgomery counties.
According to WLWT News, Lesko used his “skills to establish a rapport with families.”
It’s unclear whether the victims were introduced to him through his counseling practice or personal networks. However, it is clear that Lesko exploited his professional roles to gain access to vulnerable children.
It’s unclear whether the victims were introduced to him through his counseling practice or personal networks, it is clear that Lesko exploited his professional roles to gain access to vulnerable children.
For more details, read articles from The Enquirer and WLWT News.
Impact of Abuse by Mental Health Care Professionals and Importance of Safeguards
Lesko’s case is a stark reminder that mental health care professionals entrusted with the care and well-being of vulnerable individuals can exploit their position of trust for their own gratification. When professionals in trusted roles exploit their power, it not only causes immediate harm to the victims but also undermines the integrity of the entire profession.
This case underscores the urgent need for stronger safeguards within institutions that employ such professionals. Background checks, supervision, and clear reporting mechanisms must be enforced to prevent abuse.
Learn more about how we advocate for accountability in Youth Organizations and Health Care.
Contact Us for Confidential, Free Consultations
At Andreozzi + Foote, we support survivors of institutional sexual abuse and hold institutions accountable for the negligence of professionals like social workers and counselors. If you or a loved one was harmed by Michael Lesko or another trusted professional, contact our trauma-informed team today for a free, confidential consultation. We are committed to seeking justice and holding those responsible accountable.
Call: (866) 311-8640
Email: info@vca.law
