LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. — A Chester County man was arrested after police discovered that he was in a sexual relationship with a minor, according to the New Holland Police Department.
Police began investigating the relationship in July, according to a criminal complaint. The victim allegedly told police that Christopher Ratcliff, 19, of Atglen, made her uncomfortable and that she had engaged in sex acts with him.
When officers interviewed Ratcliff on Aug. 16, he allegedly said that he met the victim through a friend and knew that she was 14 years old. The two began dating after the victim's mother passed away, according to an affidavit of probable cause.
On Nov. 6, Ratcliff was charged with involuntary deviate sexual intercourse person less than 16 years of age, statutory sexual assault: 4 - 8 years older, unlawful contact with minor - sexual offenses, corruption of minors - defendant age 18 or above, indecent exposure and indecent assault person less than 16 years of age.
Court records show Ratcliff is next scheduled for a preliminary hearing on Nov. 15. He remains in Lancaster County Prison, unable to post bail.
