Pennsylvania Special Needs School Teacher, Justin Pavetto, Arrested for Allegedly Attempting to Rape Child

Pennsylvania Special Needs School Teacher Arrested

A Pennsylvania public special needs school teacher accused of attempted rape of a child, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office announced.

The Attorney General’s office said Justin Pavetto, 37, of Butler County, was arrested on charges not related to his job at Beaver Valley Intermediate Unit's New Horizon School.

Officials said Pavetto believed he was in online contact with the father of an 11-year-old boy and communicated with alleged intentions to assault the child. The person posing as the father, authorities said, was actually an undercover agent.

Planned Meeting Leads to Arrest

Investigators said Pavetto arranged to meet the “father” and the boy at a McDonald’s and then drove to the meeting location.

Attorney General Dave Sunday said the alleged conduct was disturbing and involved someone trusted to help young people rather than abuse them. He also praised the actions of agents and partners at the FBI for removing Pavetto from the school and the community.

PA Teacher Facing Nine Felony Sex Crime Charges; Held on Bail

Pavetto is facing nine felony charges and is being held in the Butler County Prison on $500,000 bail.

Anyone with information regarding Pavetto is asked to contact the Attorney General’s office at 800-385-1044.

The factual information above was sourced from cbsnews.com/pittsburgh as of May 26, 2026.

The attorney commentary below is not specifically about the case reported above. Attorney commentary provided is information about these types of cases in the justice system.

Legal Options for Victims of Teacher Sexual Abuse in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, when a teacher sexually abuses a child, victims and families may face both immediate safety concerns and complex legal decisions. Experienced sexual abuse lawyer Ashley DiLiberto explains the legal options available to victims, including criminal accountability, possible civil claims, evidence considerations, and key steps families often take after abuse is reported.

Q: When a victim is sexually abused by a teacher, what legal routes are typically available in Pennsylvania?

A: Often, there are multiple paths at the same time. Criminal matters may be pursued by prosecutors, while victims and families can also bring civil claims—such as claims against the wrongdoer and, in certain situations, against the school or other responsible entities.

Q: What should victims or families do first if they’re trying to protect themselves legally?

A: They should focus on safety and get support right away, then preserve evidence where possible. That can include reporting, saving messages, documenting dates and events, and seeking medical or psychological care. Legally, timing matters, so getting advice early helps clarify what deadlines may apply.

Q: Are there cases where adults can pursue claims even if a long time has passed?

A: Yes—Pennsylvania law can allow certain claims to proceed depending on factors like when the abuse was discovered, the victim’s age, and specific circumstances. Because these rules can be complex, it’s important for families to speak with a lawyer to determine whether a claim may still be filed.

Q: What about reporting—does contacting law enforcement affect the civil side?

A: It can. Criminal investigations sometimes uncover evidence that becomes important in a civil case. But even when criminal charges aren’t filed, civil claims may still be possible. Each case is evaluated based on the available proof and the legal strategy that best fits the victim’s goals.

Q: In your experience, what should victims expect from the process?

A: The process can be stressful, but a good legal team can explain each step, prepare victims for what to expect, and focus on minimizing additional harm. The goal is accountability while protecting the victim’s dignity and long-term well-being.

Take Action Now: Free Consultation Available

If you or your family is dealing with the aftermath of sexual abuse by a teacher, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Contact us today for a free consultation so our team can review your situation, explain your legal options, and help you take the next step with clarity and support.