WASHINGTON COUNTY, PA. A man was arrested in Washington County on suspicion of sexually assaulting an 11-year-old for more than a year in exchange for Fortnite in-game currency.
According to the criminal complaint, South Fayette Police Department Detective James Jeffrey was investigating Ryan Wolstoncroft, a former resident of South Fayette who now lives in Cecil. The investigation was into a 20-year-old molestation case involving two victims.
According to the complaint, Detective Jeffrey spoke with the mother of a recent victim. When the interviewer inquired why he was there,
the victim said, “someone hurt me in a bad way.”
He then went on to recount what he described as a daily event. Which began in the living room when Wolstoncroft tickled him and reached down into his pants.
According to the complaint, the victim tried to get Wolstoncroft to stop, but he refused. He was also warned not to inform anyone, according to the victim. The incidences progressed to instances that the victim claimed he didn’t want to discuss, according to the complaint.
The report states that Detective Jeffrey questioned the mother of a recent victim.
The victim would stay at Wolstoncroft’s house on a weekly basis as long as the abuse persisted, the last occasion being in November 2021.
South Fayette Police Chief John Phoennik told Channel 11 that a mandated reporter had contacted in the previous two weeks to indicate that her son had come forward and claimed that Wolstoncroft fondled him 20 years ago. The police also discovered another victim with a similar narrative.
Wolstoncroft met both of these victims at Bethany Presbyterian Church in Bridgeville, according to interviews. The most recent victim and his mother, according to the criminal complaint, were members of the same church.
According to Chief Phoennik, there were times when Wolstoncroft would babysit the two victims, but the police believe none of the actions took place at the church. Bethany Presbyterian Church sent the following statement to Channel 11.
The news has saddened Bethany Presbyterian Church, and we are actively collaborating with authorities.
“Bethany Presbyterian Church is devastated by the news, and we are fully cooperating with the authorities. Our Pastors, Staff, and Leadership ask that you share in our prayers and support for the families and friends of all involved. Bethany Presbyterian Church is focused on being a place of healing and reconciliation for our congregation and the entire community.”
Wolstoncroft is presently in jail at Washington County Prison. Charged with sexual assault, indecent assault of a juvenile under the age of 13, and minor corruption. Chief Phoennik plans to meet with the District Attorney next week. The charges will most likely be filed then.
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