(WNY News Now) – HARRISBURG, PA — A Pennsylvania State Police trooper has been charged with felony witness intimidation and related offenses after allegedly attempting to influence a witness in a child abuse investigation, officials announced Tuesday.
Christopher S. Young, 34, faces charges of felony intimidation of a witness, misdemeanor stalking, and loitering or prowling at night. A district judge denied him bail, citing concerns for public safety. Young has been suspended without pay, according to Pennsylvania State Police.
An investigation by the Attorney General’s Office and Pennsylvania State Police revealed that Young repeatedly contacted a witness in recent weeks, sending multiple calls and text messages. On Feb. 24, he was found late at night armed with a gun and knife in a wooded area behind the witness’ home in Schuylkill County.
“These charges outline disturbing and deliberate attempts to influence witness cooperation in a very serious police matter,” Attorney General Sunday said. “As a sworn officer with an oath to protect the community, the defendant’s alleged behavior will not be tolerated.”
Young has been with the Pennsylvania State Police since 2017 and was assigned to Troop L, Hamburg.
The child abuse investigation remains ongoing. The case is being prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Lauren Eichelberger. Young, like all defendants, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
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