A 70-year-old Johnstown pediatrician is facing new and harrowing charges of sexually abusing a 7-year-old family member over a span of years, beginning when the girl was just three years old. Dr. Johnnie Barto, once trusted by families for his medical care, now stands accused of exploiting that trust to prey on a child in his own circle, authorities announced April 9, 2018.
Barto, of Delta Drive, Johnstown, was charged with indecent assault, corruption of minors, unlawful contact with a minor, and endangering the welfare of children. The charges stem from repeated assaults detailed by the young victim, who described being molested while seated on Barto’s lap and watching television — often in plain sight of other family members, who remained unaware due to Barto deliberately turning his chair away from view.
The most recent alleged assault occurred during a Christmas family gathering in 2017. As the child sat on Barto’s lap, he began touching her inappropriately, using the festive chaos as cover. Investigators say the pattern of abuse was systematic, occurring over years and always exploiting the same setting — a chair in front of the TV — to create a routine that normalized the contact to the victim.
Attorney General Josh Shapiro, who announced the charges, called the crimes a profound betrayal of familial and professional trust. “There are few people whom parents trust more with their own children than their pediatrician and their own family – Barto took advantage of that and betrayed their trust,” Shapiro said. “He preyed on young children for his own sexual gratification, and these serious charges reflect the horrendous nature of his crimes.”
The case emerged after another family member — a 14-year-old — came forward in March 2018, leading to Barto’s initial arrest. Now, with a second victim speaking out, investigators believe more children may have been victimized. The Office of Attorney General is urging additional victims to call their dedicated hotline at 412-565-7680 or contact Richland Township Police at 814-266-8333.
The case is being prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Simquita Bridges. Authorities stress the investigation remains active and ongoing. Barto’s fall from respected doctor to accused serial abuser underscores a chilling pattern of manipulation and abuse — one that may extend beyond the two victims currently identified.
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: Pennsylvania AG
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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