A Harford County baseball coach was taken into custody this week after investigators say he tried to arrange a meeting with someone he believed to be a 15‑year‑old boy.
Robert 'Joe' Swarthout, 41, faces two felony counts of soliciting a minor after authorities say he used an online platform to communicate with an undercover deputy posing as a teenager.
Swarthout, who serves as a coach for Fallston Recreation and has a background in tutoring, was arrested following a coordinated sting operation conducted by the Harford County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Jeffrey R. Gahler announced the charges, emphasizing that the alleged conduct represents a direct threat to children and drawing a parallel to a recent arrest of a Catholic Church deacon facing similar accusations.
The sheriff urged parents and guardians to have open conversations with their children about online safety, warning that predators often exploit digital spaces to target vulnerable youths.
Community Response and Prevention Efforts
Local officials say the case underscores the need for heightened vigilance, and they are working with schools and recreation programs to reinforce safe online practices.
CBS News Baltimore is currently awaiting a response from Fallston’s baseball program regarding the status of the team and any forthcoming statements.
Investigators have not released further details about potential additional victims, but they have indicated that the investigation remains active.