Ex-Horsham Pastor Charged With Child Exploitation

HORSHAM, PA — The former pastor of a Horsham church has been charged in federal court with child exploitation and possession of child pornography.

Jerry Zweitzig, 71, of Hatboro, was charged by indictment with multiple counts, which include enticing a minor to engage in sexual conduct, the U.S. Attorney's office announced.

Zweitzig is the former pastor of Horsham Bible Church on Upland Avenue in Horsham.

"Child exploitation is a pervasive problem – made more so by the accessibility of the internet and digital media – that demands an aggressive response," said U.S. Attorney William McSwain. "The allegations in this case are particularly disturbing due to the defendant’s history as a spiritual leader in a position of community trust. We stand ready with our federal and local partners to identify and prosecute those who would prey upon minor children."

If convicted, Zweitzig faces a maximum possible sentence of 170 years in prison, a minimum mandatory term of 15 years, five years of supervised release, and a $1.5 million fine.

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Horsham Police Department.

"Crimes against children are disgraceful and unacceptable," said Marlon V. Miller, special agent in charge of HSI Philadelphia. "HSI will continue working with our partners to aggressively investigate cases in which child predators use the internet to further exploit children within our community, and around the world."

Zweitzig, who retired in 2016, was jailed in January after similar charges were filed in Bucks County court.