HARRISBURG, PA — Authorities announced charges against a former Lackawanna County police officer and school resource officer, alleging years of sexual abuse involving multiple students.
Stephen J. Carroll, 49, who previously served with the Scranton Police Department and as a school resource officer at West Scranton High School, faces a series of criminal charges, including rape, statutory sexual assault, and official oppression. The charges stem from an investigation led by the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation and a presentment obtained from the 52nd Statewide Investigating Grand Jury.
Carroll is accused of abusing five students, with alleged incidents dating back to 2009. Investigators claim the abuse occurred both at Carroll’s residence and on school grounds. He was arrested Friday, arraigned, and his bail was set at $500,000. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 3, 2025.
Attorney General Michelle Henry condemned the alleged actions, stating, “This public servant took an oath to protect his community and was specifically assigned to look out for the well-being of students — instead he used his position of authority to groom and sexually assault multiple teenagers.”
Captain James Cuttitta of the Pennsylvania State Police emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, reiterating the importance of accountability for those in positions of authority.
The case is being prosecuted by Chief Deputy Attorney General Heather Castellino and Senior Deputy Attorney General Helen H. Park. Authorities remind the public that Carroll, like all individuals charged with a crime, is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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