A Sandy Lake man faces multiple felony charges, including statutory sexual assault and child pornography, after an investigation by Pennsylvania State Police.

Justin James Ort, 22, was arraigned Thursday before District Judge Douglas E. Straub on charges stemming from an alleged relationship with a 15-year-old girl.

According to court documents, Ort is charged with statutory sexual assault, child pornography, corruption of minors, and interference with custody of children, all felonies. The offenses allegedly occurred on or around Jan. 1, 2024.

State police were dispatched to a residence on Rowltsch Road in Worth Township, Mercer County, on Wednesday evening after receiving a report that the 15-year-old girl had been found at Ort’s home.

An affidavit of probable cause filed by the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Investigation Unit states that the girl’s mother reported her daughter had repeatedly been found with Ort and that he did not have permission to take her from her family’s custody.

During an interview with police, Ort allegedly admitted to picking up the girl early Wednesday morning and taking her to his home. He also admitted to having sexual contact with her in January 2024 near Lake Wilhelm, and that he was aware of the age difference between them.

The affidavit also states that Ort admitted to receiving and viewing nude images of the girl that she sent to him.

The 15-year-old girl confirmed to police that she had engaged in a sex act with Ort in a vehicle at the lake. She also confirmed sending nude images to him.

Ort was arraigned and bail was set at $50,000. He couldn’t post bail and is being held at the Mercer County Prison. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 26.