Female fugitive wanted in connection with child sex crimes investigation

EAST HEMPFIELD TOWNSHIP, PA — The East Hempfield Township Police Department has arrested John Dehart, 56, from Camano Island, Washington, and is actively seeking another suspect, Sarah Miller, 34, in connection with a series of alleged sex crimes against a minor. These crimes reportedly occurred between 2011 and 2013 in the 2200 block of Seitz Dr.

Dehart was arrested in Philadelphia on April 18 and extradited to Lancaster County. He faces multiple charges, including rape of a child, statutory sexual assault, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, incest, indecent assault, corruption of minors, endangering the welfare of children, and terroristic threats. His bail was set at $1 million by Magisterial District Judge Michael Hess. Dehart is currently held in Lancaster County Prison with a preliminary hearing scheduled for May 21.

The police are urgently seeking information on the whereabouts of co-defendant Sarah Miller, last known to be residing in Nanticoke, Luzerne County. Miller faces similar charges to Dehart. It has been reported that she may also use the name Sara and the surname Souder. The allegations against Dehart and Miller were brought to light by the Manor Township Police Department on December 1, 2023, following a witness report in a separate investigation. Interviews with the victim revealed the abuse occurred when the child was aged 4 to 6 years.

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