Leechburg Police Chief Michael W. Diebold, 40, is behind bars on felony child predator charges after attempting to solicit sex from a minor — who was actually an undercover agent. Diebold was arrested January 5, 2018, in Westmoreland County following an online sting led by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Child Predator Section.
Diebold engaged in explicit online conversations with an undercover agent posing as a 14-year-old girl, repeatedly sending inappropriate photos and pushing for sexual contact. Despite being told multiple times the individual was underage, Diebold continued the exchange and made arrangements to meet the ‘minor’ in person, according to prosecutors.
Upon arrival at the planned location, Diebold was apprehended without incident by investigators. He now faces two first-degree felonies: unlawful contact with a minor and criminal attempt to commit involuntary deviate sexual intercourse. Both carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison time if convicted.
Attorney General Josh Shapiro did not mince words: “This case is particularly heinous because the perpetrator is a public official, sworn to serve and protect the community.” He emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for child sexual abuse, vowing to pursue every offender, regardless of rank or position.
The case is being handled by Senior Deputy Attorney General Chuck Washburn. Evidence includes digital messages, images sent by Diebold, and recorded plans for the illicit meeting. The investigation highlights the ongoing threat of online predators — especially those in positions of authority.
Authorities urge anyone with information about suspected child predators to call the Child Predator Hotline at 1-800-385-1044 or text tips to 847411 using PAKIDS + YOUR TIP. One more predator may be off the streets, but the AG’s office warns the fight is far from over.
Related Federal Cases
- Youngstown Predator Fleischer Indicted in Child Exploitation Case · Pennsylvania
- Oil City Predator: Glass Gets 37 Months for Child Porn · Pennsylvania
- Blairsville Predator: Payson Indicted in Child Exploitation Case · Pennsylvania
- Allegheny Predator Glies Gets 18 Years for Child Exploitation · Pennsylvania
- NYC Probation Chief Costello Gets 12+ Years for Child Porn Crimes · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: Pennsylvania AG
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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