Youth Leader Norman Brooks Charged with Indecent Assault of Child

This story courtesy of NBC10.com

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A youth group leader from a local church has been arrested, accused by prosecutors of inappropriately touching a 13-year-old girl.

Members of the Carmel Presbyterian Church found it difficult to believe an employee there was arrested.

“I’m surprised, a little disappointed if it is true,” Denise Bottinger, a church member, said.

Montgomery County prosecutors charged 61-year-old Norman Brooks with indecent assault.

Investigators said Brooks inappropriately touched a 13-year-old girl.

Investigators said Brooks was the girl’s church youth group leader in Abington.

Investigators said Brooks assaulted the girl on nine different occasions between January and April of this year.

Police said Brooks admitted some disturbing details.

According a police report, Brooks told officers he touched the girls thigh twice at her home, while her unsuspecting mother was in the room.

Police said he also admitted to touching the 13-year-old’s thigh in a car while driving her to a church breakfast.

NBC 10 went to Brooks’ home for comment but no one came to the door and neighbors were reluctant to comment on camera.

But one neighbor said that she feels for the family.

Church members are still trying to digest the news about a man they said they’ve trusted with their children for years.

“He is dedicated to the church and does a lot for the church. Hopefully things will work out and if he did do it then I hope he gets the help that he needs,” Bottinger said.

Brooks’ preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 28.