BELLEFONTE, Pa. - Jerry Sandusky declare on Friday that people have turned against him, moments after the ex-Penn State football coordinator asked a judge for greater freedom while he awaits trial on child sex abuse charges.

Sandusky was in a Centre County courtroom and asked a judge to let him see relatives, including supervised visits with his grandchildren, and friends. He denies the criminal allegations. The judge could rule early next week on Sandusky's request.

Sandusky also said he felt people who had been welcomed in his home were trying to keep him confined indoors.

"I've associated with thousands of young people over the years," said Sandusky, 68, the former Penn State defensive coordinator charged with 52 criminal counts involving 10 victims over 15 years. "And now, all of a sudden, because of allegations and perceptions that have been tried to be created of me, now I can't take our dog on my deck and throw out biscuits to him."

Sandusky's home borders an elementary school and its playground. After he sought permission to see relatives and friends and leave his home to help lawyers prepare his case, the attorney general's office countered with a court filing that said neighbors expressed concern for the safety of children.

A teacher and intern also reported he had been watching children from his back deck.

Prosecutors want an order that restricts Sandusky to the inside of his home.

Associated Press

(China Daily 02/12/2012 page7)