Peabody Man Caught In Child Sex Predator Sting

PEABODY, MA — A Peabody man was one of ten men arrested in a sting operation focusing on child sex predators by the District Attorney in Delaware County, PA. Gregory Sylvia, 32, of Peabody, was arrested after a Pennsylvania State Police corporal posed as a 15-year-old boy on a social media platform. Sylvia, according to prosecutors, sent nude photos and arranged a meeting, where he was arrested.

Sylvia was charged with attempt to commit involuntary sexual intercourse and related offenses, and arraigned on April 5. He is due back in court for a preliminary hearing on May 13.

"These defendants actively sought out and targeted juveniles, attempting to prey upon our youth, for their own warped sexual gratification. That is the very definition of predatory behavior," Delaware County District Attorney Katayoun M. Copeland said. "This undercover operation is a reminder to parents and community members how important it is to talk with their children, monitor internet use, and report any suspicious activity."

Sylvia and nine other men were arrested following a month-long investigation conducted by Copeland's office as part of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Child Abuse Prevention Month. In addition to the Pennsylvania State Police, the FBI and six, local police departments in Pennsylvania participated in the investigation.

Dave Copeland can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).