A Pennsylvania high school senior is facing hundreds of felony charges following allegations of operating a “large-scale criminal network” involving sextortion and catfishing.
Allegations Detail Extensive Scheme
Zachariah Abraham Meyers, 18, of McMurray – approximately 15 miles southwest of Pittsburgh – was arrested Friday and charged with over 300 felonies. These include trafficking in minors, sexual extortion, unlawful contact with a minor, and distribution of child sexual abuse material, according to a court docket.
Authorities allege Meyers, a senior at Peters Township High School, used social media platforms such as TikTok and Snapchat to initiate contact with victims, as reported by WTAE and WPXI.
According to authorities, “Meyers was able to deceive and coerce juvenile males into sending explicit pornographic images and videos of themselves.” Evidence recovered from Meyers’ phone allegedly links him to the alleged criminal activity.
Meyers is currently held at Washington County Prison while awaiting a preliminary hearing. He was denied bail, with the court citing concerns that he is both a danger to the community and a flight risk.
School District Responds
The Peters Township School District released a statement to WTAE confirming they were informed of the ongoing investigation by police. The district stated that police indicated there is no immediate safety risk to schools and that they will continue to cooperate fully with the investigation.
The Peters Township School District and the Peters Township Police Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Zachariah Abraham Meyers facing?
Zachariah Abraham Meyers is facing more than 300 felony charges, including trafficking in minors, sexual extortion, unlawful contact with a minor, and distribution of child sexual abuse material.
Where is Zachariah Abraham Meyers being held?
Zachariah Abraham Meyers is being held at Washington County Prison pending a preliminary hearing.
What has the Peters Township School District said about the investigation?
The Peters Township School District stated that police informed them of the ongoing investigation and indicated there is no immediate safety risk to schools. The district will continue to cooperate fully with the investigation.
How will this case impact the community and the ongoing conversation about online safety for young people?
