CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. — A former youth pastor is facing multiple charges including indecent assault after he allegedly sexually molested a child at a Cumberland County restaurant.
According to the Upper Allen Township Police Department, on April 7, officers responded to a local restaurant after several witnesses reported watching an older man sexually molest a young child in public.
The suspect was identified as Roy Andrews, 76, from Mechanicsburg, who knew the victim from his previous involvement as a youth leader for a Hispanic church in Harrisburg called "Iglesia La Fuenta." Andrews was a youth leader for the church from 2014 through 2022.
According to an interviewee, Andrews began picking up children in Harrisburg and taking them to a church in Mechanicsburg after attendance at Iglesia La Fuenta fell. This is allegedly why he was with the children on April 7.
Police viewed surveillance footage from the restaurant to corroborate the witnesses' claims that he molested the child. According to a criminal complaint, Andrews can be seen on video touching the victim inappropriately and having the victim touch him inappropriately as well. Officers also noted that while Andrews' attention was focused on the victim, he allowed the other two children under his care to run around without supervision and hang out in the parking lot near driving lanes.
On April 22, officers executed a search warrant at Andrews' home. He allegedly attempted to flee and resist arrest.
Officers were eventually able to arrest Andrews and he was transported to Cumberland County Central Booking for processing and arraignment. He remains imprisoned at Cumberland County Prison.
Andrews has been charged with unlawful contact with a minor, indecent assault, corruption of minors, endangering the welfare of children and resisting arrest.
This is an ongoing investigation. Police are searching for other possible victims of Andrews. Anyone with information has been asked to contact the Upper Allen Township Police Department at 717-795-2445. An anonymous tip line is also available by calling or texting 717-850-UAPD (8273). Anonymous tips can also be submitted online here.
