Christopher S. Young, 35, of Lancaster County, is accused of inflicting head trauma on an infant in his care and engaging in a pattern of abuse against three children. The charges follow a joint investigation by the Office of Attorney General and the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Integrity and Professional Standards.
Young was arraigned this week on felony and misdemeanor charges, including aggravated assault, simple assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and reckless endangerment. Bail was set at $50,000.
According to prosecutors, the most serious injuries occurred in September 2023, when an infant sustained head trauma while in Young’s custody. The child required hospitalization, medical treatment, and physical therapy.
Investigators also uncovered additional instances of alleged abuse. Young is accused of forcefully digging his chin into the head of one child on multiple occasions, causing visible injuries. A witness further alleged that Young allowed loaded firearms to be accessible to children and permitted a child to handle a firearm.
Young was previously charged earlier this year with felony intimidation of a witness and misdemeanor stalking and loitering in connection with this same investigation. On the night of February 24, Schuylkill County authorities say Young—armed with a handgun and a knife—was found in a wooded area behind a witness’s home, after repeatedly calling and sending text messages attempting to influence the witness.
Attorney General Sunday condemned the conduct, saying:
“No one is above the law. The alleged actions by the defendant are deeply disturbing, and my office intends to hold him fully accountable. When a sworn officer violates their oath it is a stain on all officers who selflessly and professionally protect their communities.”
Young is currently suspended without pay by the Pennsylvania State Police.
Senior Deputy Attorney General Lauren Eichelberger will prosecute the case.