An investigation conducted by the Hazleton City Police Detective Division culminated with a felony arrest and incarceration. The investigation began on June 29th, 2018, with the Hazleton City Police, Luzerne County District Attorney's Office and the Luzerne County Children and Youth into suspected child abuse. The victims are children ages 8 and 4 at the time of the abuse.
Ralph SIMMONS is charged with the following:  Corruption of Minors (relating to sexual offenses): Two counts, Felony 3
Indecent Assault (victim less than 13 years of age): Two counts, M1
The children were forensically interviewed at the Luzerne County Child Advocacy Center. The investigation revealed that both juveniles were staying at SIMMONS residence for a sleep over when the incident occurred.
SIMMONS was taken into custody on the above listed charges and arraigned in front of Magistrate Zola. Simmons was remanded to the Luzerne County Correctional Facility on $50,000 straight bail.