Youth supervisor accused of providing a gun and engaging in sexual relations with a troubled youth, according to Bucks County District Attorney.
In a troubling case from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, a 30-year-old woman employed as a “house mom” at a group home for troubled teenagers has been charged with multiple offenses, including institutional sexual assault and corruption of minors. Cristal Betancourt is accused of engaging in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a 16-year-old boy under her care, exacerbating the vulnerabilities faced by youth in such facilities.
According to law enforcement officials, the alleged misconduct came to light following an investigation initiated in January, several months after the boy had been placed at the group home, which is located at 700 Ross Drive in Feasterville. Operated by the Community Service Foundation, this facility is designed to house and provide behavioral therapy for adolescents typically assigned there after involvement with the juvenile justice system. Supervisors, including Betancourt, assume significant responsibilities, including recommending whether residents merit home visits.
The charges against Betancourt stem from disturbing details outlined in an affidavit for her arrest. It was reported that she allegedly solicited money from the teenager and coerced him into sexual encounters, with the boy expressing significant fear of Betancourt in his personal notes. He described her as “crazy” and recounted an incident in which she reportedly demanded sex while brandishing a firearm.
Investigators became aware of the relationship after receiving information from Lancaster County authorities, who had obtained evidence of the teen holding a handgun alongside Betancourt in a photograph. Further examination revealed that Betancourt had procured firearms, including a Walther PPQ handgun, about which she claimed to have lost possession following a theft from her vehicle. During a subsequent investigation, law enforcement discovered additional evidence on the teenager’s phone, including photos of him posing with Betancourt’s guns.
The inquiry revealed that Betancourt had taken the minor on unauthorized excursions, breaching his probation terms while allegedly misleading him regarding their whereabouts. Text messages uncovered during the investigation indicated that Betancourt had transferred 0 to the boy just before Christmas, raising further concerns about the nature of their relationship.
As of the latest reports, Betancourt has yet to appear for arraignment, and attempts to procure comments from her or representatives of the Community Service Foundation were unsuccessful. This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety and welfare of vulnerable youth in group home settings, emphasizing the crucial role oversight and accountability play in such environments.
