Fallston Coach Held in Online Solicitation Case
A 41‑year‑old baseball coach from Fallston, Maryland, was taken into custody this week after investigators say he attempted to arrange sexual contact with a minor through an online messaging platform.
Robert 'Joe' Swarthout, who serves as a youth baseball coach for Fallston Recreation, was communicating with an individual he believed to be a 15‑year‑old boy. Detectives later revealed that the supposed minor was actually an undercover deputy who repeatedly warned Swarthout of the minor’s age.
According to charging documents, Swarthout continued the conversation despite being told multiple times that the contact was underage. Law enforcement officials say the coach persisted in exchanging explicit messages and eventually arranged a meeting that would have taken place in person.
The investigation uncovered that Swarthout had previously worked for a national tutoring company before returning to his role in the community league. His coaching responsibilities have placed him in regular contact with children and their families.
Prosecutors have filed two felony counts of solicitation of a minor against Swarthout. If convicted, the charges carry significant prison time under Maryland law.
The case has drawn attention from local officials, who emphasized the importance of vigilance among adults who work with youth sports programs. Authorities have urged parents and guardians to monitor online interactions and report any suspicious behavior.
Swarthout remains in custody pending a bail hearing, and the Fallston Recreation department has placed him on administrative leave while the legal process unfolds.