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Bellefonte Man Facing Charges

Authorities in Centre County say a Bellefonte man is facing charges after being accused of abusing two young children and using “cold meat” to cover up their bruises.

Police say in October of 2020, a CYS investigation of abuse, prompted by a report from school officials, resulted in the removal of 23-year-old Jonathan Berenty from his Bellefonte-area home.

Investigators say Berenty became “confrontational” with the CYS workers after being advised to leave the home for 30 days as part of a “safety plan.”

Police say the investigation into Berenty began when State College school officials reported that the two children had recently missed school after one of the children had previously shown up to school with a bruised cheek.

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Upon further investigation, police say Berenty had admitted to “disciplining” the children by “spanking” them.

Police say one of the children told investigators that Berenty would “put cold meat” on her after spanking her.

According to the affidavit, police say a medical exam was performed on both children and authorities discovered “severe bruising” on both children.

Berenty has since been charged with child endangerment, simple assault and harassment, according to online court documents.

His bail was set at $7,500 unsecured.

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