Former Wilkins Township fire chief arrested for sexual exploitation of children
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Disturbing new details have emerged in the case of Frank Derzak.
The criminal complaint provided to KDKA reveals details about the abuse that investigators say took place at his home. He has been charged with aggravated indecent assault, unlawful contact with a minor, and child endangerment. He was arrested Wednesday night in Butler County.
According to investigators, Derzak inappropriately touched a 13-year-old boy at his home and would even bribe him with gifts. The abuse started months ago, investigators said.
Paperwork revealed the victim would go to Derzak's home and the man would cuddle him and later sexually assault him.
Police said the victim reported that Derzak had a room full of gifts he would offer to keep the child quiet. According to the criminal complaint, Derzak admitted to everything in a text message to the victim's grandmother.
According to an anonymous source, this is not the first time Derzak has bribed or sexually assaulted children. That person claimed they know of at least four other victims dating back 30 years.
KDKA asked county police if they are investigating other cases involving him. A spokesperson said they are not aware of any other victims at this time.
Derzak, who was the deputy fire chief for the Wilkins Township Volunteer Fire Department from 2012 to 2017, was arraigned Thursday morning and released on bail.
The volunteer fire department said he is no longer affiliated with the organization and will assist in the investigation as needed.