Mount Joy Man Charged in Online Child Exploitation and Attempted Sexual Abuse Case

Pennsylvania Authorities Expose Attempted Child Exploitation in Online Sting Operation

A 59-year-old Mount Joy man, identified as Geoffrey Ottens, has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies for attempting to sexually exploit and abuse a child he believed was under the age of 13. The case, announced by Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat child exploitation in the digital age.

According to a press release from the Office of the Attorney General, Ottens engaged in explicit online communications with someone he believed to be a preteen girl. Unbeknownst to him, the “child” was actually an undercover agent from the Attorney General’s Child Predator Section, working in coordination with the Lebanon County District Attorney’s Office.

Authorities allege that Ottens persisted in his attempts to communicate and arrange a meeting, even after being told the “child” was only 11 years old. His arrest is the latest in a series of statewide investigations targeting individuals who use online platforms to solicit minors for sexual purposes.

“Offenders who seek to exploit children online will be found and held fully accountable,” said Attorney General Sunday.

Investigation Reveals Child Sexual Abuse Material at Mount Joy Residence

After a series of monitored communications, investigators executed a search warrant at Ottens’ home on Wood Street in Mount Joy. During the search, law enforcement seized several electronic devices, which were later subjected to forensic analysis.

The investigation reportedly uncovered more than 100 files of child sexual abuse material, including videos and images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. Ottens was subsequently arrested and denied bail due to the severity of the charges and concerns that he posed a flight risk.

He faces a long list of felony charges, including:

• Unlawful contact with a minor (rape of a child)

• Unlawful contact with a minor (involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child)

• Dissemination and possession of child sexual abuse material

Joint Law Enforcement Operation Targeted Online Predators

The successful operation was part of a collaborative effort between state and county authorities to proactively identify and apprehend individuals attempting to exploit children online. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Jacob Jividen of the Child Predator Section, a specialized unit dedicated to investigating online sexual exploitation cases.

Lebanon County District Attorney Pier Hess Graf praised the teamwork between her office, the Attorney General’s Office, and the Human Trafficking Task Force, noting that the case underscores the effectiveness of multi-agency coordination in protecting children from digital predators.

“This case demonstrates our continued commitment to removing dangerous offenders from our communities,” said DA Graf. “Online exploitation is a form of abuse that leaves lasting scars, and we will continue to fight for those who cannot defend themselves.”

The Growing Threat of Online Exploitation in Pennsylvania

The Ottens case reflects a wider pattern of online grooming and exploitation seen across Pennsylvania and the nation. Advances in technology have given predators new tools to target minors through social media, gaming platforms, and messaging apps.

Experts warn that grooming can happen quickly — predators often pose as peers or trusted adults, gradually manipulating children into sharing explicit content or meeting in person. The anonymity and accessibility of online communication make it easier for offenders to hide their true identities and intentions.

Attorney General Sunday has repeatedly emphasized the importance of the Child Predator Section, which has successfully arrested hundreds of individuals across Pennsylvania who sought to exploit minors online. The unit combines digital forensics, undercover operations, and interagency partnerships to track offenders and protect children before real-world harm occurs.

Protecting Children Through Awareness and Education

Authorities urge parents and guardians to stay actively involved in their children’s online lives. This includes:

• Monitoring social media accounts and messages.

• Setting privacy and parental control settings on devices.

• Teaching children to never share personal information or images online.

• Encouraging open, nonjudgmental communication about their online interactions.

By creating an environment where children feel safe reporting suspicious behavior, families can play a vital role in preventing online exploitation before it escalates.

Legal Advocacy and Support for Survivors in Pennsylvania

The trauma caused by child sexual abuse and exploitation can have lifelong consequences. Survivors often face challenges including anxiety, depression, and difficulty trusting others. In addition to criminal prosecution, civil legal action can help victims seek justice and compensation for their suffering.

Ashley DiLiberto, Esq., of Survivors of Abuse PA, provides trauma-informed legal advocacy for survivors of sexual abuse, including those targeted through online exploitation and trafficking. Her firm represents victims throughout Pennsylvania, helping them hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable.

Attorney DiLiberto’s compassionate approach ensures that survivors are heard, supported, and guided through every stage of the legal process. For those affected by child exploitation or sexual abuse, confidential legal help is available to pursue justice and healing.

Source:

https://www.mychesco.com/a/news/social-issues/crime/mount-joy-man-charged-in-online-child-exploitation-and-attempted-sexual-abuse-case/