Chiropractor sentenced to 4 years probation
By JOE L. HUGHES II Ledger Staff Writer joe@gaffneyledger.com

A local chiropractor must register as a sex offender after pleading no contest Monday to charges of sexually assaulting a young girl between 2003 and 2004.

Joshua B. Gelardi, 41, was sentenced to 10 years in prison suspended to four years probation after entering a nolo contendre plea in Cherokee County General Sessions Court. He is required to go through all the procedures necessary to register as a sex offender as well as comply with all Family Court orders and pay $1,800 restitution to the victim, who is currently undergoing psychological therapy.

"All parties agreed to the lesser charge," Assistant Solicitor Kim Leskanic said. "We all believe there is good cause for Gelardi to register as a sex offender without having to place the rigors of a trial on a young child."

Gelardi was arrested in January 2005 by the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office on a charge of criminal sexual conduct.

Gelardi's wife, Beverly Allison Gelardi, was also arrested. She is is accused by authorities of failing to report the crime to authorities. She is also charged with violating a court order.

She posted $50,000 bond and is currently awaiting trial.

Several of Gelardi's friends and family were in court Monday, with some of them speaking on his behalf.

"This comes as a shock to me as a result of what transpired," Lawrence Foster, a friend of Gelardi's said. "But I have known (Gelardi) for seven or eight years. In my honest opinion, I believe he is no threat to the community or society and hope he receives a lighter sentence."

"(Gelardi) is a gentle person, full of integrity," Dr. Leroy Moore, an acquaintance of Gelardi's said. "I cannot see how he is a threat to this community."

Gelardi was also given a chance to speak, choking back tears as he pleaded with the judge for mercy.

"I am very sorry for being here and just ask for mercy to have the ability to contribute to the well being of my children," he said.