Clearfield business owner accused of 'grooming' teen employee, police say

Clearfield Co., PA (WJAC) — Authorities with the Lawrence Township police department say a Clearfield County businessman is facing charges, accused of "grooming" one his former teenage employees.

According to the affidavit, the victim's mother filed a report in early October stating that she believed that her 17-year-old daughter was being "groomed" by 39-year-old Kevin Legenski, the owner of Uncle Buck's Creations.

Police say the teen's mother told investigators that she had reportedly found numerous messages between the two, suggesting that they had been engaged in some sort of relationship.

Investigators say the messages and notes that were found on the girl's phone also reportedly showed that the two had discussed getting married and taking a trip to Tennessee together.

Authorities say, upon further investigation, the teen admitted to exchanging numerous messages and photos, some of which were sexual in nature, with Legenski.

Police say the girl also admitted to "having sex" with Legenski, approximately 5 to 10 times, at the store while she was employed there.

According to the complaint, police say the teen also confirmed that she and Legenski had discussed marriage together, as well as taking trips together.

Police noted that the girl's parents made her quit her job at the store in August after having suspicions of a relationship between her and Legenski, although police say the victim's mother told officers that, at the time, she "had no proof" of such relationship.

Authorities say when they later interviewed Legenski about the accusations, he reportedly "indicated" that something had happened between he and the girl, but never explicitly confirmed nor denied the accusations.

Legenski is charged with felony unlawful contact with a minor and corruption of minors, as well as misdemeanor child endangerment, according to online court records.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for early December.

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