Perry County judge accused of sexually abusing child: Attorney General

Perry County District Judge Michael Schechterly was charged Monday with sexually assaulting a 12-year-old boy, according to the state Attorney General’s office.

A state police investigation showed Schechterly, 58, of Newport, sexually assaulted the boy at his home in 2012, said a news release from Attorney General Joshua Shapiro. At another time, a witness said Schechterly touched himself inappropriately in the presence of the child, the release said.

Shapiro said Schechterly, who was elected district judge in 2011, spent time at home and at his office with children that he met through a program at his church called “Royal Rangers” where he served as “Commander Mike.”

“Serious allegations show this judge violated the trust that the citizens of Perry County placed in him by sexually abusing a little boy,” Shapiro said in the news release. “There may be other victims... We will hold the powerful and well-connected accountable to law just like everyone else. My office will investigate and prosecute anyone who abuses their authority to harm Pennsylvanians, no matter what position of power they may hold.”

Schechterly was charged with unlawful contact with children, corruption of minors and indecent assault, .

“Protecting our children is of the utmost importance,” State police Troop H Commander Captain Matthew Nickey, said. “The citizens we serve can be reassured that the Pennsylvania State Police work tirelessly to provide a fair and complete investigation. I would like to thank all of the agencies who assisted in this case.”

Schechterly, who was elected district judge in 2011, established an active role in the community, the AG’s office said, but concerns were raised by people in the community regarding his contact with children.

Witnesses told police that Schechterly regularly brought children into his district court office and home, including ones that he met through the church program.

Schechterly was denied bail due to being a dnager to himself and others, according to online docket sheets.

Anyone with information about Schechterly and his actions with children are asked to call the Pennsylvania State Police hotline at 717-881-6937.

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