> At a Glance
> – Dennis Kochenash, 80, is charged with sexually assaulting a 14-year-old in 2024.
> – The alleged assaults occurred in both Lehigh and Bradford counties.
> – Authorities say the abuse began after months of messaging on Snapchat.
> – Why it matters: The case highlights how predators can exploit social media to groom minors.
An 80-year-old man is facing multiple felony charges for allegedly grooming and sexually assaulting a teenager across two Pennsylvania counties, according to investigators.
How the Alleged Abuse Unfolded
Investigators say Kochenash began messaging the teen through texts and Snapchat months before any physical contact. Over time, those digital conversations escalated to in-person meetings.
By December 2024, police allege Kochenash had assaulted the victim multiple times:
- At locations in Bradford County
- At the victim’s home in Lehigh County
- While providing the teen with marijuana
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2024 | Victim, 14, first assaulted |
| Oct 27, 2025 | ChildLine report triggers investigation |
| Jan 7, 2026 | Kochenash arrested |
Authorities noted Kochenash previously lived in Whitehall, Lehigh County, before relocating to Wyalusing Borough in Bradford County.
Charges and Next Steps
Kochenash is charged with:
- Involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a person under 16
- Statutory sexual assault
- Corruption of minors
- Related offenses
He is currently awaiting extradition to Lehigh County. Both the Bradford County and Lehigh County District Attorney’s Offices are continuing their investigations.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Pennsylvania State Police at 610-395-1438.
> Resources for victims are available through the National Sexual Violence Resources Center and the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 800-656-4673.
Key Takeaways
- Alleged abuse spanned multiple months and counties
- Digital grooming preceded physical assaults
- Joint investigation by two county DA offices
- Victim support resources are widely available
The arrest marks a significant step in a case that crossed county lines and involved both online and in-person abuse.
