An Ashland man is facing a felony charge after authorities allege he failed to report a social media account as required under Pennsylvania’s sex offender registration law.
James Elias Roche, 30, of Ashland, has been charged with one felony count of failure to provide accurate registration information. Court records show the charge was filed on August 6 through Magisterial District Judge Edward Tarantelli’s office.
According to an affidavit of probable cause filed in the case, Ashland Police were contacted by a Pennsylvania State Parole agent requesting assistance at a residence on Walnut Street in Ashland.
Police said Roche was being detained by parole agents on the front porch when officers arrived.
During the investigation, authorities allegedly located a cell phone hidden in a laundry room.
According to the affidavit, Roche is registered as a Tier I offender under Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law and is subject to a 15-year registration requirement. His registration reportedly began in December 2024.
Authorities allege Roche was required to report social media accounts to Pennsylvania State Police. The affidavit states that Roche admitted to parole agents that he had an active Facebook account that authorities allege had not been properly reported.
Roche was subsequently taken into custody by parole agents and transported to Schuylkill County Prison.
Court records list one second-degree felony count of failure to provide accurate registration information, with an alleged offense date of July 28.
Roche was arraigned Friday, August 7, before Tarantelli, who set bail at $25,000 monetary. Court records indicate Roche was committed to Schuylkill County Prison after being unable to post bail.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 19 at 1:30 p.m. before Tarantelli.