Law Enforcement Foils Attempted Rendezvous Between Sex Offender and Undercover Officer Posing as Minor
BENSALEM, PA — A registered sex offender from West Chester, Pennsylvania, was arrested for attempting to engage in sexual contact with someone he believed to be a 13-year-old girl, authorities announced today. Anthony Dillard, 49, of S. Concord Road, is now facing a slew of felony charges after he traveled to Bensalem to meet the fictitious minor—who was, in reality, an undercover law enforcement officer.
Dillard, a convicted sex offender under Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law since 2016, was previously found guilty of Statutory Sexual Assault and Corruption of Minors. As a result, he is mandated to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. That legal designation did not prevent him from reoffending, officials say.
Online Predation Attempt Thwarted by Undercover Operation
According to Bensalem Township Police, Dillard initiated contact with what he presumed was a 13-year-old female on a dating application. The communications quickly escalated in both frequency and sexually explicit content. Authorities report that Dillard expressed a desire to meet the minor in person and even proposed renting a motel room for the encounter.
A first meeting was scheduled for May 1, 2025. However, that attempt was aborted before Dillard could complete his predatory agenda. Undeterred, he continued to engage in graphic conversations and pushed to reschedule.
On May 27, 2025, he arrived once more in Bensalem, believing he was meeting a child. Instead, he was met by officers from the Bensalem Township Police Department, who arrested him on the scene.
Charges Include Multiple Felonies Related to Child Exploitation
Following his arrest, Dillard was transported to Bensalem Police Headquarters. He now faces a comprehensive set of felony charges, including:
- Sexual Abuse of Children (Photo/Video)
- Unlawful Contact with a Minor
- Attempted Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse
- Attempted Corruption of Minors
- Criminal Use of a Communication Facility
- Attempted Indecent Assault
These charges reflect the gravity of his intentions and the proactive law enforcement efforts to intercept a repeat offender before any real-world harm could occur.
High Bail Reflects Severity of Allegations
Dillard was arraigned before District Justice Joseph Falcone. Due to the nature and severity of the allegations—and in light of his prior convictions—bail was set at $30 million, with a 10% cash condition. As of this publication, he remains incarcerated at the Bucks County Correctional Facility.
Megan’s Law and Repeat Offenders: A Growing Concern
This arrest once again brings into sharp focus the complexities surrounding the monitoring of individuals listed on Megan’s Law registries. Despite mandatory reporting, some offenders continue to exploit digital platforms in their search for new victims. Law enforcement agencies in Pennsylvania and across the country are leveraging increasingly sophisticated tactics to prevent such crimes.
Law Enforcement Urges Vigilance and Reporting
The Bensalem Police Department has reiterated the importance of parental oversight and monitoring of digital communications among minors. Authorities encourage anyone with information about suspicious online interactions or potential exploitation to contact local law enforcement immediately.
Citizens can also consult Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law website to remain informed about sex offenders residing in their communities.
Conclusion
Anthony Dillard’s arrest is a stark reminder that sexual predators often attempt to reoffend, even under strict legal supervision. This case underscores the vital importance of continuous law enforcement vigilance, digital undercover operations, and community awareness to protect minors from exploitation. With Dillard now in custody and facing significant prison time if convicted, justice may again be served—but the broader threat persists.
Contact Information for Tips or Assistance:
- Bensalem Township Police Department
- Anonymous Tip Line: (215) 633-3719
- Megan’s Law Registry: [Pennsylvania Megan’s Law Website]
