Reading, PA – A former teacher and coach at Berks Catholic High School has been arrested and charged after authorities allege he maintained an inappropriate relationship with a student, officials announced Tuesday.
Criminal Investigation Began After Report of Teacher Sexual Misconduct
On March 31, 2025, the Berks County District Attorney’s Office received two childline referrals from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, flagging allegations that a Berks Catholic High School coach was exchanging inappropriate images with a student. The information prompted a criminal investigation by local officials.
Teacher Accused of Exchanging Inappropriate Texts with Student
Investigators determined that in November 2024, Henry C. Pilliod, 22, of Sinking Spring, Pennsylvania, and a 17-year-old student began communicating electronically inappropriately. According to authorities, Pilliod and the student began exchanging explicit images and videos via Snapchat starting in January 2025. Officials further stated that between December 2024 and February 2025, the two engaged in sexual activity on multiple occasions.
Pilliod’s Role at Berks Catholic High School
Between August 2024 and March 2025, Pilliod served as a volunteer tennis coach at Berks Catholic, stepping into a long-term substitute teaching role during February and March 2025. When the school learned of the allegations on March 30, 2025, administrators immediately reported the matter to ChildLine, Berks County Children & Youth Services, and police. The school confirmed that Pilliod’s employment was ended immediately.
Charges Filed and Court Proceedings
Wednesday, August 6, 2025, saw official charges filed against Pilliod: institutional sexual assault, corruption of minors, unlawful contact with a minor, and criminal use of communications facilities. He surrendered to county detectives on August 7, 2025, and is awaiting a preliminary arraignment.
School Statement and Ongoing Legal Process
In a statement, Berks Catholic High School affirmed its response: “Berks Catholic High School received an allegation of sexual misconduct against Mr. Henry C. Pilliod, a volunteer Tennis Coach and long-term substitute teacher, on March 30, 2025. The school immediately reported the allegation to ChildLine, followed by reports to Berks County Children & Youth Services and to the police. Mr. Pilliod’s employment was immediately terminated in accordance with the school’s policies designed to protect our students. In accordance with guidance from the Berks County District Attorney’s Office, we refrained from making a public statement in March to avoid compromising the integrity of the ongoing investigation.”
The statement also noted, “On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, Mr. Pilliod was formally charged… Out of respect for the investigation and the privacy of all individuals involved, no further details can be shared at this time. As with all criminal cases, an arrest or the filing of a complaint is only an allegation. Mr. Pilliod is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.”
The school encouraged anyone with information about abuse to contact authorities.
Understanding Legal Options for Students Abused by Catholic School Teachers
To learn more, we sat down with Max Morgan, a seasoned Pennsylvania sexual abuse lawyer, about the legal paths available to students who have been sexually assaulted by a teacher. They explore both criminal charges and civil claims, and explain what steps victims and their families can take to protect their rights and seek compensation.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a student is sexually abused by a teacher, what legal paths are available to them in Pennsylvania?
Max Morgan, Esq.: Victims can take both criminal and civil actions. While law enforcement will investigate and prosecute the perpetrator for criminal charges, survivors also have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the teacher or even the school if there was negligence in supervision or hiring. This can help them secure compensation for pain, suffering, therapy costs, and other damages.
Banville: Can schools also be held accountable if they report the abuse promptly?
Morgan: If the school followed all mandatory reporting laws and acted immediately, their liability may be limited. However, if there’s evidence the institution ignored warnings, failed procedures, or allowed access after concerns were raised, they could face civil consequences for negligence.
Banville: What do victims need to do if they’re considering legal action?
Morgan: Victims or their families should consult an attorney as soon as possible. It’s important to gather documentation—messages, witness accounts, and any reports made to authorities or the school. There are statutes of limitations for both criminal and civil actions, so it’s important not to delay.
Take Action Today: Free Legal Consultation for Victims and Families
If you or a loved one has experienced abuse by a teacher, don’t wait to explore your legal options. Contact us now for a free, confidential consultation with experienced attorneys ready to help protect your rights and guide you through every step of the process. Support and answers are available—reach out today.
