A Pennsylvania woman supervising a group home for troubled teens allegedly sexually assaulted a 16-year-old boy while holding a gun to his head.
NewsPlop confirmed with Buck County court officials that Cristal Betancourt, 30, was charged with institutional sexual assault of a minor, possession of a firearm by a minor, corruption of minors, and endangering the welfare of children.
The alleged sexual abuse started at a home in Feasterville, Pennsylvania, during the summer of 2024, according to the allegations.
The alleged abuse occurred over several months, according to investigators, who further allege Betancourt even bought the boy a gun of his own.
The teen kept notes about the alleged abuse in his iPhone. He told prosecutors he was “terrified” of Betancourt. He thought that she would “get him in trouble” if he did not comply, according to court documents.
Community Service Foundation runs the home where the alleged abuse unfolded. The foundation offers housing and mental health services to juvenile offenders arrested for criminal offenses.
Betancourt was hired as a full-time “house parent” to watch over the teens. She lived in the home, as well, cops said.
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It was unclear what offense the teen victim was on probation for. But a photo the teen posted on social media, with him next to Betancourt, holding the gun she allegedly gifted him, was reported to authorities, and the boy was charged with violating his parole.
Betancourt allegedly admitted to police she kept two handguns inside the group home, according to the allegations.
Police only found one of the guns, though. Betancourt allegedly told cops the other one was stolen.
The missing gun is the one featured in the teen’s social media post, according to the allegations.
When questioned by police, the boy opened up about Betancourt’s abuse and told them she had bribed him with money and drugs in exchange for sex.
The boy also allegedly wrote in his notes that he believed Betancourt was “crazy” and detailed how she once pointed a gun at him while demanding sex from him.
Police discovered a text message Betancourt allegedly sent the boy claiming she was pregnant. She also allegedly asked him to buy her emergency contraception, police said.
The alleged abuse was discovered six months after the teen was ordered to live at the home by court order, according to the allegations.
Investigators alleged Betancourt brought the boy to a gun store to pick out the pistol. She said she bought it for herself, according to court filings, but that she let the boy hold onto it.
Authorities said Betancourt also sent the boy $600 through CashApp, which violated the terms of her employment.
Betancourt was fired from her job, cops added.
Betancourt has not yet been taken into custody, as police continue to look for her.
A warrant has been issued for her arrest, according to Bucks County prosecutors.
It is unclear where police believe Betancourt could be.
Community Service Foundation did not respond to requests for comment.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).