A former Lancaster County Bible class instructor, 49-year-old Michael Hess, has been accused of multiple charges of sexual assault of a female student. The abuse allegedly took place when the victim was around seven years old and occurred more than thirty times. Hess taught at the New Providence Church of God in Providence Township, and the details of the allegations have recently been disclosed following the victim's report to Pennsylvania State Police.
According to ABC27, the victim alleged that during the Awana Bible study classes, Hess would have her sit on his lap and place his hand inside her pants. The incidents reportedly took place over the course of an entire school year, every week that both Hess and the victim were present. An interview with Hess, where he admitted to having the child sit next to him in a concealed spot to carry out his actions, was part of the charge documents.
Hess now faces charges including aggravated indecent assault of a child, unlawful contact with minor – sexual offenses, and corruption of minors. As detailed by CBS 21, he also received misdemeanor charges of indecent assault of a person less than 13 years of age and indecent assault without the consent of another person. Records indicate Hess was arrested and released on a $75,000 unsecured bail.
The investigation is ongoing and authorities continue to gather information. FOX43 reports that Pennsylvania State Police have made it clear that the New Providence Church of God's leadership has been fully cooperative with the criminal investigation. The preliminary hearing for Hess is set for October 7. Meanwhile, police are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Members of the community or individuals with potential insight into the case are encouraged to contact Trooper Nicholas Reginella of the Pennsylvania State Police Lancaster Station at 717-299-7650 to support ongoing efforts to seek justice and to ensure a thorough investigation.
