PHILADELPHIA — Jerry Zweitzig, the former pastor of Horsham Bible Church in Pennsylvania, has been charged with multiple counts of child exploitation, including enticing a minor to engage in illicit sexual conduct and possession of child pornography. The 71-year-old from Hatboro is staring down a potential sentence of 170 years in prison if convicted.
“Child exploitation is a pervasive problem that demands an aggressive response,” said U.S. Attorney William McSwain. “The allegations against Zweitzig are particularly disturbing given his role as a spiritual leader.”
According to McSwain, the accessibility of the internet and digital media has only exacerbated this issue. He emphasized the dedication of federal and local partners in identifying and prosecuting such predators.
Marlon V. Miller, special agent in charge of HSI Philadelphia, echoed these sentiments. “HSI will continue working with our partners to aggressively investigate cases where child predators exploit children online.”
The maximum sentence Zweitzig faces includes 170 years imprisonment, a minimum mandatory term of 15 years, five years of supervised release, and a $1,500,000 fine.
The investigation was led by Homeland Security Investigations and the Horsham Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Eric L. Gibson is prosecuting the case. Zweitzig is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Related Federal Cases
- Philadelphia Mom Pleads Guilty to Child Sex Exploitation · Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Man Accused of Possessing Child Sexual Exploitation Images · Pennsylvania
- WaPA Man Sentenced for Child Sex Exploitation · Washington
- Erie Man Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation & Gun Law Violations · Pennsylvania
- Erie Predator Melter Indicted in Child Exploitation Case · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes|Cybercrime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News