Lawyers recommending no additional jail time

A 41-year-old Albert Lea man pleaded guilty in Freeborn County District Court on Monday to sexually abusing a young child under 5 years of age.

As part of a plea agreement, Leo John Kobinski pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a young child.

He initially faced one count of both first- and second-degree criminal sexual conduct.

Kobinski’s lawyer and Freeborn County Attorney Craig Nelson recommended in court Monday that Kobinski’s sentence be limited to time already served in the Freeborn County jail. He would be subject to time in jail if he violates his probation.

He would also have to undergo a sex offender evaluation and register as a sex offender.

If the recommendation is accepted, the first-degree charge would be dismissed.

If Freeborn County District Court Judge Steve Schwab does not accept the sentencing arrangement, Kobinski can withdraw his plea.

Court documents state the abuse was reported in April 2010 by a social worker with the Dakota County Department of Human Services. The alleged acts reportedly took place in late 2009 and early 2010.

When interviewed by a local police detective, Kobinski initially denied any sexual contact with the child. However, he later admitted to inappropriate touching and other contact. He reportedly stated the actions were not forced on the child.

In court Monday, he also admitted to the sexual contact.

First-degree criminal sexual conduct with a child under 13 carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $40,000 fine. The second-degree criminal sexual conduct charge carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison and a $35,000 fine.