Megan’s Law offender back in jail after sex assault of teen

A Tamaqua man who recently completed a 10-year jail term on charges of sexual abuse of a child and possession of child pornography is back in jail.

Craig Allen York, 34, of Hunter Street, Tamaqua, was released from prison a few months ago and returned to his Tamaqua home. On Sept 22, he allegedly sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl.

The case was reported to law enforcement on Nov. 4.

According to the affidavit filed by Tamaqua Criminal Investigator Thomas Rodgers, York took two young girls to a Walmart store, where he purchased a blanket. He then took them to the Rabbit Run Reservoir, where he laid out the blanket and sexually assaulted the 14-year-old. The victim repeatedly told York no. The other girl said she had to or York would hurt them.

Both girls were interviewed and said York threatened them.

He was arraigned Thursday afternoon by District Magisterial Judge Stephen Bayer on charges of forcible rape by compulsion, statutory sexual assault, indecent deviate sexual intercourse by forcible compulsion, indecent deviate sexual intercourse with a person younger than 16, two counts each of indecent assault without consent and indecent assault of a person younger than 16, indecent exposure, corruption of minors and reckless endangerment.

Judge Bayer set bail at $100,000 straight cash, which York was unable to post.

He was transported to the Schuylkill County Prison in Pottsville.