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Ellicott City Boy Scout leader charged with sexual abuse of teen, police say

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CBS News Baltimore Live

BALTIMORE -- An Ellicott City Boy Scout leader is accused of sexually abusing a teenager, Howard County Police said.

James Alan Soltysiak, 56, a Boy Scout leader at Our Lady of Perpetual Help for the past five years, has been charged with second-degree rape, sexual abuse of a minor and second-degree assault.

Police said the alleged abuse is unrelated to his role as a scout leader.

"However, due to his proximity to minors, the department feels it's important to share this information and ask anyone that has information about possible other victims to contact police," Howard County Police spokesperson Lori Boone said.

Police started investigating in mid-October after the victim told an adult about the abuse, which allegedly began in May. 

"They contacted a trusted adult in their life who contacted the police department, which is exactly the right thing to do," Boone said.

Soltysiak is being held without bond at the Howard County Detention Center.

"Detectives have been doing everything they can to uncover other possible victims in this case," Boone said.

Officials said there is no indication that there are other victims, but anyone with information is asked to call 410-313-STOP or email HCPDcrimetips@howardcountymd.gov

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