A Pennsylvania State Police trooper has been charged with multiple offenses after allegedly attempting to influence a witness in a child abuse investigation, state officials announced Tuesday.
Christopher S. Young, 34, was charged with felony intimidation of a witness, as well as misdemeanor counts of stalking and loitering or prowling at night. He was arraigned and denied bail, with a district judge deeming him a danger to himself and others.
According to an investigation conducted by the Office of Attorney General and Pennsylvania State Police, Young repeatedly contacted a potential witness in a child abuse case, making multiple calls and sending text messages in recent weeks. On the night of Feb. 24, he was found armed with a gun and a knife in a wooded area behind the witness’s home in Schuylkill County.
“These charges outline disturbing and deliberate attempts to influence witness cooperation in a very serious police matter,” said Attorney General Dave Sunday. “As a sworn officer with an oath to protect the community, the defendant’s alleged behavior will not be tolerated.”
Young, who enlisted in 2017, was assigned to the Patrol Unit in Troop L, Hamburg. He is currently suspended without pay, according to Pennsylvania State Police.
The child abuse investigation remains ongoing. The case is being prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Lauren Eichelberger.
Criminal charges are allegations, and Young is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
