Montgomery County

Counselor Accused of Inappropriately Touching Teen Client

A Montgomery County counselor is accused of inappropriately touching one of his teen clients.

Bernard Rivas, 73, of the Lansdale section of Upper Gwynedd Township, is charged with endangering the welfare of children, corruption of minors and indecent assault.

Rivas is a licensed counselor who meets with clients in his home office. Rivas’ internet advertisements also mentions that he works with teens in crisis, according to investigators.

On Feb. 27, a 14-year-old girl who officials say was a client of Rivas, reported to police that he inappropriately touched her on several occasions.

The girl’s accusation led to an investigation which culminated with Rivas’ arrest on March 19.

Rivas was released after posting 10% of 5,000 bail. He was ordered to have no unsupervised contact with children. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 30.
 

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