WEST FALLOWFIELD TW, PA — Pennsylvania State Police in Avondale have filed criminal charges against a former member of the Octorara Area School Board following an investigation into the alleged illegal recording of a closed executive session nearly two years ago.
According to state police, the investigation centers on an executive session of the Octorara Area School Board held in April 2023 at Octorara Area Middle School, located at 228 Highland Road in West Fallowfield Township. Authorities allege the session was secretly recorded without the consent or knowledge of those present, in violation of Pennsylvania’s Crimes Code.
Troopers identified Anthony P. Falgiatore, who was serving as an active member of the school board at the time, as the individual responsible for the recording. State police said the matter came to their attention in March 2025, prompting an investigation that included multiple interviews conducted over several months.
Investigators allege the recording captured a confidential executive session involving at least 10 individuals, including school board members and the superintendent, who were participating in school board business. Police allege the act constituted a wiretap violation under state law.
Following the investigation, and with approval from the Chester County District Attorney’s Office, Falgiatore was charged with wiretap-related offenses, including violations of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code.
Falgiatore was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Jennifer Heffern in District Court 15-3-07. Bail was set at $10,000.00 unsecured. A preliminary hearing is tentatively scheduled for February 9, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.
All criminal charges are allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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