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Man accused of creating modeling ruse to obtain naked pics of kids

CLARION COUNTY, Pa. — Agents from the Attorney General's Child Predator Unit, along with police, arrested a Clarion County man Friday accused of creating a modeling ruse in order to obtain naked pictures of children.

Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane identified the defendant as Shane Niederriter, 25.

According to the criminal complaint, Knox used social media to pose as a modeling scout and solicit naked pictures from a mother and her 20-month-old daughter.

Niederriter allegedly identified himself as “Jim” and stated that he worked for “Docherty Talent and Modeling Agency” in Pittsburgh.

Kane said that in one instance Niederriter allegedly contacted the child’s mother via Facebook, told her he had seen a photo of her daughter and asked if she would send any “bath time” or swimsuit photos of the child.

The charges state that that mother consistently rejected Niederriter’s offers and contacted the Knox Police Department.

Agents executed a search of Niederriter’s computers and revealed hundreds of pictures and videos including at least 19 photos and seven videos of minors engaged in graphic sexual activity.

Kane noted that the investigation is ongoing. Individuals who believe they may have been contacted by Niederriter are encouraged to contact the Attorney General’s Child Predator Unit at 1-800-385-1044 or the Knox Police Department.

Niederriter is charged with 25 counts of sexual abuse of children (possession of child pornography) and one count of criminal use of a communication, authorities said.

Niederriter is currently being held in Clarion County Prison in lieu of $10,000 straight bond. Additionally, he was ordered to have no use of the Internet or computers.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 12.