A 26-year-old Levittown man is behind bars after an online tip about a Reddit post helped uncover an alleged sexual assault of a teenage girl, authorities said Tuesday.
At a Glance
- Sean Flohr, 26, faces multiple sexual assault and child pornography charges
- Investigation began after Reddit user alerted detectives to teen’s post
- Alleged victim told 911 “Dean” had just left her home after sexual encounter
- Why it matters: Case highlights how social media can both enable and expose abuse
The investigation unfolded rapidly after the teen’s online activity caught the attention of a concerned Reddit user. According to prosecutors, the minor had posted on Reddit “inquiring on assistance meeting an adult male to engage in sexual intercourse.”
That post prompted a Reddit user to contact authorities. Detectives then reached out to the girl’s guardian, setting off a chain of events that would lead to Flohr’s arrest.
How the Abuse Unfolded
Flohr initially contacted his alleged victim through Reddit messages, prosecutors said. Their communication later shifted to Discord, a popular messaging platform among teens and gamers.
The situation escalated on the day the teen called 911. She told dispatchers that someone she knew as “Dean” had just left her home and that they had engaged in sexual activities. The girl also reported cutting her wrist after the encounter.
During the investigation, the teen revealed that “Dean” had instructed her to take nude pictures and videos of herself and send them to him, according to prosecutors.
The Arrest
The Bucks County SWAT Team took Flohr into custody. He currently awaits extradition to Gloucester County, New Jersey, where the charges have been filed.
Charges Filed
Flohr faces serious charges including:
- Three counts of second-degree sexual assault of a victim aged 13 to 16
- Three counts of second-degree sexual assault
- Child pornography charges
- Endangering the welfare of a child
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities say their investigation into Flohr remains active. They believe there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward.
Anyone who thinks they may have been victimized by Flohr or has information about other potential crimes is urged to contact the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office.
The case demonstrates how online communities can play a crucial role in identifying and reporting suspected abuse, potentially preventing further harm to vulnerable minors.
