By Michael Morton
Thomas Geed of 45-63 196th Place was charged with two counts of a criminal sexual act, or sodomy, and arraigned last Thursday, police said. Two of Geed's uncles appeared with him at the hearing, the Nassau district attorney said, and Geed was released into the custody of one of them.
The uncle serves as Geed's guardian despite the fact that Geed is 28 years old, the DA said. It was not known why he has a guardian.
If convicted, Geed could face up to 14 years in prison. He was scheduled to return to court Monday.
Police said Geed met the girl on the Internet and arranged to meet her July 6 at the Floral Park Motor Lodge on Jericho Turnpike. The girl, whose name and home address were not released, was reported missing that day, police said, and officers from Queens and Nassau checked area motels, distributing fliers with her photo.
When Geed went to check out July 7 with the girl, motel staff recognized her and alerted the authorities, police said. Officers John Kalberger and George Colby from Nassau's Third Precinct rushed to the motel and placed Geed under arrest, police said.
The girl was taken to Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow, where she was treated and released, police said.
At Geed's residence, an older man who answered the door Friday declined to comment. A man resembling Geed sat in the living room watching television.
The Nassau DA said Robert Gulla was representing Geed, but the office did not provide an address for the lawyer and he could not be reached for comment. The manager at the motel referred all questions to the police.
Reach reporter Michael Morton by e-mail at news@timesledger.com or by calling 718-229-0300, Ext. 154.
