Pennsylvania Man Charged with Traveling to LA to Sexually Abuse 13-Year-Old

Matthew Edward Pysher, 18, accused of grooming and exploiting a vulnerable teen

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Federal prosecutors have charged an 18-year-old Pennsylvania man, Matthew Edward Pysher, with traveling to Los Angeles with the intent to sexually abuse a 13-year-old girl. Pysher is accused of grooming the victim online, convincing her to send explicit images, and then flying across the country to meet her in person at a motel, where they allegedly engaged in sexual activity.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing threat of online predators targeting vulnerable minors, as well as the challenges law enforcement faces in combating these crimes that often originate through digital platforms. It also raises concerns about the radicalization of young people towards nihilistic and violent extremist ideologies.

The details

According to prosecutors, Pysher met the 13-year-old victim on a Discord server related to mental health issues in December 2025. He is accused of grooming her, encouraging self-harm, and convincing her to send sexually explicit images. On February 20, 2026, Pysher flew from Philadelphia to Los Angeles, picked up the victim near her home, and took her to a motel in Castaic, where they allegedly engaged in sexual activity. Law enforcement found condoms, a knife, lubricant, and other items in Pysher's motel room.

  • In December 2025, Pysher met the 13-year-old victim on a Discord server.
  • On February 10, 2026, the victim's mother contacted the FBI after learning about the relationship.
  • On February 20, 2026, Pysher flew from Philadelphia to Los Angeles to meet the victim.
  • On February 20, 2026, Pysher picked up the victim near her home and took her to a motel in Castaic.

The players

Matthew Edward Pysher

An 18-year-old man from Bangor, Pennsylvania, who is accused of grooming and sexually exploiting a 13-year-old girl.

The 13-year-old victim

A minor who was allegedly groomed and exploited by Pysher online, leading to his arrest for traveling to Los Angeles to sexually abuse her.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Pysher will face a federal charge of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, which carries a potential sentence of up to 30 years in prison if convicted.

The takeaway

This case underscores the urgent need for greater online safety measures and education to protect vulnerable youth from predators who exploit digital platforms to groom and sexually abuse minors. It also highlights the growing threat of radicalization towards nihilistic and violent extremist ideologies, which can further endanger young people.