According to court documents, Patrick Garyfallou, 45, of Pottsville, was charged by Pottsville Police on July 30 with four counts of child sexual abuse material, unlawful contact with a minor for sexual exploitation, contact or communication with a minor for sexual abuse, corruption of minors, criminal use of a communication facility, and producing, presenting or directing an obscene performance involving a minor.
Police said the investigation began after they were contacted by the Orange, Massachusetts Police Department regarding a report involving a 17-year-old female. According to the affidavit of probable cause, the teenager told investigators she had communicated through Facebook and other online platforms with two adult men, one of whom was identified as Garyfallou.
Investigators allege Garyfallou and another man from Massachusetts created a Facebook group chat that included the victim and other underage females. During those conversations, Garyfallou allegedly identified himself as a pastor and discussed sexual topics while sending multiple sexually explicit photos and videos of himself. Police further allege he encouraged the juvenile to create and send similar explicit videos.
According to the affidavit, the teenager eventually sent a nude video to both men after being pressured to do so.
The investigation also revealed that Garyfallou allegedly participated in an online Bible study group with the second man and others. Police said the other man described Garyfallou as the group's leader and alleged discussions within the group frequently focused on sexual topics when younger participants were involved.
Based on information provided by Massachusetts authorities, Pottsville Police obtained and executed a search warrant at Garyfallou's East Market Street residence on July 30. During the search, officers seized multiple cell phones and a tablet.
According to investigators, Garyfallou agreed to speak with police after being advised of his Miranda rights. Police allege he admitted to being in an online relationship with the 17-year-old, sending her sexually explicit photos and videos of himself, requesting sexually explicit images and videos from her, and receiving them.
Investigators further allege Garyfallou admitted he later learned the girl was 17 years old but did not delete the images or videos from his devices.
Court records show Garyfallou was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge James Reiley, who set bail at $100,000 monetary. Unable to post bail, Garyfallou was committed to Schuylkill County Prison. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 17 before Judge Reiley.