BETHEL TOWNSHIP, Pa.–A Lebanon County man is accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl after using his pet bird to lure her into his home, according to Pennsylvania State Police reports.
Russell L. Smith, 56, is charged with aggravated assault, criminal attempt aggravated indecent assault, indecent assault, and corruption of minors, He was arraigned Thursday on $20,000 unsecured bail.
The alleged sexual happened on Aug. 3 at Smith’s home located along Fir Street in Bethel Township.
According to police, Smith built up a rapport with the girl by allowing her to play with his pet bird named “Skittles.”
Smith invited the girl into his home when she returned the bird after pet sitting for him, police said. Once inside, Smith inappropriately touched the girl, according to police reports.
The girl immediately reported the sexual assault to the authorities.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Aug. 19.
