A 31-year-old Reading man is behind bars after police say he sexually abused a 7-year-old boy at a Kenhorst Borough property in April. Investigators say the case landed on their radar after multiple child-welfare referrals triggered an investigation. The suspect, identified by police as Matthew Anoka, is being held at the Berks County Jail with bail denied.
According to NBC10 Philadelphia, the probe began in May, when the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services forwarded "multiple" referrals to law enforcement. Investigators told reporters the child reported that Anoka sexually abused him and showed him explicit photos and videos. Anoka is charged with rape of a child, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, unlawful contact with a minor and related offenses.
How the referral system works
Per the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, reports of suspected child abuse are taken around the clock through the ChildLine intake system, which then forwards referrals to county children-and-youth agencies and law enforcement for review and investigation. Mandated reporters, such as teachers and health-care professionals, must file a report when they have reasonable cause to suspect abuse, while private citizens can also call the hotline and remain anonymous.
Charges and court schedule
As detailed by NBC10 Philadelphia, officers arrested Anoka at his Reading home and took him to the Berks County Jail, where he remains held without bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Monday, July 20. The Pennsylvania Office of Victim Advocate offers information on victims' services and notification options for people affected by sex-crime cases.
How residents can report or get help
Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Reading Police or Berks County detectives; the City of Reading's official website lists local police contact details and non-emergency numbers. People who suspect child abuse can call Pennsylvania's ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313, which is available 24/7 for reporting and guidance. Victims and families looking for support or case notifications can turn to the Office of Victim Advocate for information about available resources and their rights.
