Authorities are providing additional details about the arrest of a Hollidaysburg-area man following a months-long child porn investigation.
Investigators say Anthony Petracca Jr, age 67, was reportedly a former Catholic priest in Pennsylvania.
Officials say in 2017, he was allegedly placed on leave by the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown following allegations of misconduct.
“Make no mistake that possession of child pornography is an insidious form of child abuse that exploits and harms the children involved. The defendant is accused of contributing to that exploitation and mistreatment of children,” said Attorney General Michelle Henry. “These are serious charges and we will do everything in our power to protect children and hold those who take advantage of them accountable for their crimes.”
Authorities say that since 2017, Petracca has not served as a priest or been in contact with children.
Petracca was arraigned on 31 felony counts of child pornography and is being housed on $25,000 bail.
