A Northampton County woman has been charged with sexual assault for her alleged involvement with a minor student.
Hannah Marth, 26, of Walnutport, is facing charges of Institutional Sexual Assault, and Sexual Assault by a Sports Official, according to a statement from the Northampton County Office of the District Attorney. Both charges are felonies of the third degree.
In May 2021, Marth was serving as a javelin coach for the Northampton Area High School Track and Field team. The 17-year-old victim was a student at the school and an athlete in the track and field program.
An investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police determined that Marth and the victim were engaged in a sexual relationship.
During an interview with police, Marth confessed to having “romantic involvement with the victim in May 2021,” the District Attorney’s statement said.
The victim also confirmed that he and Marth were in a relationship that lasted several months.
“A trusted relationship between a student athlete, an athlete’s parent, and a coach can be a vulnerable one. An abuse of that relationship shows a coach’s blatant disregard for the well-being of those she or he coached, and above all – the law. This defendant defied that trust when she committed this alleged crime against the victim,” Northampton County District Attorney Terence Houck said.
Marth is currently employed by the Easton Area School District. A statement from Easton Area schools Superintendent David Piperato said “the School District does not comment on ongoing criminal matters or personnel matters. However, the School District intends to cooperate fully with the authorities in this matter and will take all necessary action to ensure the safety of our students.”
Marth was arraigned before District Judge Robert Hawke. Her preliminary hearing is tentatively scheduled for April 27.
I do appreciate your reporting in and for Lancaster County. Keep up the good work!