Penn State Professor Accused Of Sexual Animal Abuse in PA State Forest

A prominent Penn State professor was recently charged following an investigation linked to trail camera footage from Rothrock State Forest. The footage, captured on April 13, allegedly showed the professor engaging in inappropriate acts with a dog.

Themis Matsoukas, 64, a resident of State College, was identified in the video by his North Face backpack, according to a criminal complaint filed by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Disturbingly, similar images featuring Matsoukas have been found on trail cameras dating back to 2014.

Matsoukas, a professor of chemical engineering, has been an influential figure at Penn State since 1991, contributing to numerous published works and receiving multiple teaching awards. As a result of these allegations, he has been relieved of his duties and is currently on leave, according to a statement from the university.

The situation escalated on June 9 when rangers served a search warrant at Matsoukas’ home. He reportedly appeared distressed, uttering, “I’m done, I’m dead, you don’t understand, I do it to blow off steam.” All items listed in the warrant were reportedly found at the property.

Matsoukas now faces multiple misdemeanor charges, including open lewdness, indecent exposure, and sexual intercourse with an animal. He is also charged with cruelty to animals and disorderly conduct. His attorney has refrained from commenting at this time.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 19 in Huntingdon County. This case serves as a somber reminder of the necessity to vigilantly guard against animal cruelty and to ensure that those responsible for such acts are held accountable.

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