Pittsburgh-Area Man Charged After Alleged Attempt To Meet Underage Girl

CLEARFIELD COUNTY, PA — A Butler man was arrested Saturday after allegedly attempting to meet whom he thought was a 15-year-old girl with the intent of sexually assaulting her.

James Andrew Cogley, 48, has been charged with criminal attempt-unlawful contact with a minor; criminal attempt-aggravated indecent assault less than 16; criminal attempt-corruption of minors; criminal use of communication facility; criminal attempt - involuntary deviate sexual intercourse less than 16; DUI-related suspended license driving.

According to Curwensville Police Chief Rod Witherite, Cogley had been sending sexually explicit messages, including photos and videos, to a female decoy since June.

He had plans of picking up the 15-year-old girl in Curwensville and taking her back to his residence in Butler. He was arrested after traveling to the arranged meeting spot - a former Uni-Mart at the corner of State and Filbert streets.

According to Witherite, Cogley has an extensive criminal history and was driving with a DUI-related suspended license at the time of his arrest, which was made in conjunction with 814 Predhunters and assisted by the Clearfield County District Attorney's office.

Cogley is being held in the Clearfield County Jail.