Knoch Primary School principal charged with failing to report alleged sexual abuse

SAXONBURG, Pa. (KDKA) -- The Knoch Primary School principal is charged with failing to report alleged sexual abuse, police announced on Monday. 

Pennsylvania State Police said Gregory Mandalas is a mandated reporter because of his job, but he willfully failed to report alleged abuse that was directly disclosed to him.

According to police, the allegations filed are against Mandalas' 20-year-old son Matthew. State police said Matthew allegedly sexually abused a 6-year-old girl in August. They said Gregory Mandalas was told about the incident several times over 22 days, and as a mandated reporter, he should have told ChildLine services immediately. 

"Reporting is there so that we keep the victims safe from the alleged actor and also keep future victims safe from the alleged actor so that's why we emphasize the importance of a timely reporting system," said Trooper Bertha Cazy.

Mandalas has been charged with persons required to report suspected child abuse. Cazy said he will turn himself in at a later date, and his son has also been charged with indecent assault and corruption of a minor. 

In a statement to families, Superintendent David Foley said the district learned of the criminal charges Monday afternoon and placed Mandalas on indefinite administrative leave. 

"It is the District's understanding that the charges and alleged conduct of Dr. Mandalas do not involve a Knoch School District student. This is a confidential personnel matter. Therefore, I am unable to provide specific details at this time. However, I will work with the solicitor's office to provide as much information as legally permitted moving forward," Foley said. 

According to Knoch School District's website, Mandalas has been the primary school's principal since 2016.