On 27/1 in a New York courtroom, Weberman, in his 60s, appeared smiling and animated via video link from Shawangunk maximum-security prison.

The notorious child molester was convicted on 59 counts and sentenced to 103 years in prison in 2013 for repeatedly sexually abusing a 12-year-old girl over three years.

After 13 years, the Brooklyn District Attorney's office intended to release Weberman under pressure from some members of his Hasidic religious community. Weberman's supporters sought a resentencing, arguing the 103-year sentence was excessive, he had served sufficient time, and was frail and near death.

However, assistant district attorney Joseph Alexis changed his mind midway when Weberman claimed to have forgotten the details of his crimes.

Nechemya Weberman previously worked as a counselor at a Jewish seminary in Williamsburg, New York. *Nypost*

In court, the child molester expressed remorse and apologized, stating he had "completely changed". But when Alexis demanded he elaborate and specifically confess to his crimes, he repeatedly replied: "I don't remember".

"What concerns me is that Mr. Weberman cannot remember, while the victim will never forget", Alexis stated. According to the prosecutor, if Weberman had cooperated and shown remorse, he would have been offered a 15-year sentence, meaning he could have been released immediately. But Weberman's attitude angered the prosecutor, who withdrew the plea offer.

The judge handed down a new sentence for Weberman of 18 years in prison followed by 10 years of probation. Including time served, he would only need to serve 5 more years, potentially being released as early as 2028 with good behavior.

Weberman can still appeal this new ruling.

"Mr. Weberman's egregious behavior in court today clearly demonstrates why he remains a danger to society. His consistent denial and refusal to confront his crimes prove that his assurances of rehabilitation and remorse are false", the victim's lawyer stated.

By Tue Anh (from Nypost)