Taylor, PA – A Scranton man faces multiple felony charges after Lackawanna County detectives say he engaged in sexual activity with a mentally disabled woman while transporting her in a church van. The arrest follows an investigation launched in April by the Lackawanna County district attorney’s office, prompted by cyber tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Church Employee Charged With Sexually Assaulting Disabled Woman in Church Van
Tara Glan, 22, of 844 Madison Ave., served as a van driver and youth group leader for Ray of Hope Church in Taylor during the period of alleged abuse. According to a criminal complaint, Glan began sexually assaulting the woman in July 2021, when she was 16, and continued until July 2023. The complaint states the woman was not capable of giving consent due to an intellectual disability, as documented in her Independent Education Program plan. At 19, she continues to require daily assistance and supervision.
Investigation Uncovers Two-Year Pattern of Abuse
During interviews with investigators, the woman described repeated assaults by Glan. She recounted that, at age 16, Glan pulled the church van over while driving her home, instructed her to get in the backseat, and forced her to have sex after she refused and told him to stop. The complaint also details an incident on New Year’s Eve at the church, where Glan allegedly forced the woman to undress and assaulted her after asking for her help cleaning up a classroom.
The woman estimated that Glan assaulted her about eight times, often after dropping off other van passengers and leaving her alone. She told investigators she stopped wanting to attend youth group, but her mother insisted she continue.
Suspect Admits to Sexual Activity
On May 8, 2025, detectives interviewed Glan at Lackawanna County Prison. He admitted to having sex with the disabled woman both at the church and in the church van. When questioned about his actions, Glan reportedly said, “Because that’s the only girl I ever met with that would actually do something sexually wise with me.”
Legal Proceedings Set to Begin
Glan is charged with rape of a disabled person, forcing a disabled person to perform oral sex, and aggravated assault. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. on May 21 before District Judge Paul Ware. The case continues to unfold as authorities prepare for the upcoming court date.
Survivors Have Rights After Sexual Abuse by Church Van Driver
Victims of sexual abuse by trusted community members often face overwhelming challenges and uncertainty about their legal rights. In the aftermath of recent allegations against a Scranton church van driver, attorney Guy D’Andrea shares practical guidance on the steps survivors can take under Pennsylvania law. This interview explores the criminal and civil avenues available, the role of institutions in preventing abuse, and the importance of seeking experienced legal support.
Laurence Banville: Cases like this are devastating for survivors and their families. What legal steps can someone take if they’ve been sexually abused by a church employee, such as a van driver?
Guy D’Andrea, Esq.: Survivors have several legal options. They can file a criminal complaint, which prompts a police investigation and possible prosecution, as we’re seeing in this case. In addition, survivors can bring a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator and potentially the church or organization if there’s evidence of negligence, such as failing to supervise or ignoring warning signs.
Banville: What challenges do survivors often face when bringing civil cases against institutions?
D’Andrea: One of the main challenges is proving the institution knew or should have known about the risk. However, if there’s a pattern of abuse or if the organization failed to conduct background checks or ignored complaints, that can strengthen the case. Pennsylvania law also allows for extended statutes of limitations in some circumstances, giving survivors more time to come forward.
Banville: What advice would you give to someone considering legal action?
D’Andrea: Speak with an attorney experienced in these matters as soon as possible. Legal professionals can help protect your rights, explain your options, and guide you through what can be a complex process. No one should have to face this alone.
Take the First Step: Free Legal Consultation Available for Families
If your loved one has experienced sexual abuse by a church van driver or any trusted community member, you don’t have to face this alone. Our dedicated legal team is here to answer your questions and help you understand your options. Contact us today for a confidential, no-cost consultation and let us support your family on the path to justice and healing.
Source
https://www.yahoo.com/news/church-van-driver-accused-sexually-000300486.html
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
