WEST CHESTER, PA — A part-time police officer from Coatesville is facing multiple felony charges following allegations that he covertly photographed and filmed minors at a YMCA pool in East Goshen Township. The Chester County District Attorney’s Office and the Westtown-East Goshen Police Department announced the arrest of 52-year-old Mark Mackrell, who was taken into custody on July 31 and later released on $100,000 bail.
According to the criminal complaint, the investigation began after police received a report from a concerned parent on July 23. The parent stated that her 14-year-old daughter and her 13-year-old friend believed they were being recorded while playing in the pool the previous day at the YMCA located on Airport Road. When staff approached the individual suspected of taking the videos, he reportedly declined to provide his name and instead identified himself as a police officer, displaying a badge.
Authorities later identified Mackrell as the individual in question and confirmed his employment as a part-time officer with the Millbourne Borough Police Department in Delaware County.
During the course of the investigation, law enforcement executed a search of Mackrell’s phone. Investigators say they discovered numerous images and videos of minors, with some files dating back to July 2024. Several recordings reportedly include audio in which Mackrell can be heard making inappropriate sexual comments about the juveniles.
Mackrell now faces charges including Photographing a Sexual Act, Stalking, and Unlawful Contact with Minors, among other related offenses. The case remains under active investigation.
Anyone with information related to this matter is encouraged to contact the Westtown-East Goshen Police Department at (610) 692-9600. First Assistant District Attorney Erin O’Brien has been assigned to prosecute the case.
Authorities also urge the public to report any concerns regarding the safety of children. Individuals may call 911 or reach out to Pennsylvania’s Childline at 1-800-932-0313.
As in all criminal proceedings, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.