LOCK HAVEN, Pa. — A Clinton County jury reached a unanimous verdict on Friday, finding Kenneth Matthew Yerger guilty on all 56 counts against him, including multiple serious charges related to the sexual exploitation of minors. The trial, originally anticipated to last four days, concluded earlier than expected after District Attorney Dave Strouse presented the prosecution’s case in a single day.
The jury, consisting of six men and six women, deliberated for approximately 90 minutes before delivering the verdict. On Friday morning, both Yerger and his wife testified in his defense, followed by closing arguments, leading the jury to begin its deliberations in the afternoon.
Presiding over the trial was Judge Michael F. Salisbury, who provided the jury with necessary instructions prior to their deliberations. Yerger faced a range of charges, including two counts of Rape of a Child and 16 counts of Unlawful Contact With a Minor. Collectively, the verdict carries a potential maximum sentence of up to 659 years in prison.
Upon conviction, Judge Salisbury revoked Yerger’s bail, ordering him to be held at the Clinton County Correctional Facility while awaiting sentencing, scheduled for Dec. 9, 2025. As part of the post-conviction process, Yerger will undergo a Sexual Offenders Assessment by the Pennsylvania Sexual Offender’s Assessment Board. This evaluation will determine if he should be classified as a Sexually Violent Predator under Megan’s Law.
District Attorney Dave Strouse expressed relief at the jury’s verdict and commended their service. He highlighted the courage of the four victims, noting the trauma they endured during the trial. Strouse conveyed hope that this outcome could facilitate healing for the victims.
Additionally, Strouse praised the efforts of the Pennsylvania State Police officers involved in the investigation, specifically Troopers Chad Harpster and Dalton Young.
This case underscores the serious legal consequences associated with crimes against children and the importance of justice for victims. The community’s focus will now shift to the upcoming sentencing, where the severity of Yerger’s actions will be addressed in the court’s final decision.
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