Internet Vigilantes Help Arrest Alleged Child Predator in Pennsylvania

A group of internet vigilantes impersonated a 13-year-old girl on Instagram, leading to the arrest of a suspected child predator in Pennsylvania, according to local police.

On July 17, a member of the group known as “Predator Poachers” contacted the Bensalem Police Station, revealing she had been posing as the girl for about eight months. The police report noted that a 42-year-old man, identified as Rooney, made sexually explicit remarks and was caught attempting to engage with a group of 13-year-olds.

Rooney met the girl in Bensalem and was allegedly involved with her the same night. Following this encounter, members of the group confronted him, eventually calling the authorities. Rooney faces several charges, including unlawful contact with minors and attempted sexual assault, among others. During the police investigation, he reportedly allowed officers to access his phone, which contained child pornography.

The confrontation between the vigilantes and Rooney culminated in his arrest, as noted by William McVay, Bensalem’s public safety director. McVay emphasized the risks associated with such operations, stating that the involved vigilantes aren’t trained police officers, which can complicate situations during arrests. He also expressed concerns about the potential for other victims.

Vigilante groups targeting predators are increasingly visible, with some, like “Dads Against Predators,” emerging in recent years. They often utilize dating applications to lure suspected offenders by posing as minors and arranging to meet in public spaces.

Some members of these groups have expressed frustration with law enforcement’s pace of action, leading to their decision to intervene directly.