Norwin officials identify Connellsville man as musical volunteer with criminal record

A Connellsville man who volunteered with Norwin Middle School’s musical at one time had proper clearances, but later pleaded guilty to crimes that would prevent him from lawfully working with children, according to Norwin School District officials.

Solicitor Russell Lucas confirmed the volunteer was Brad Geyer, 37, who pleaded guilty in November in Fayette County court to corruption of minors and providing alcohol to minors. Geyer has been banned from district property after failing to notify the district of the change in his criminal record prior to helping with “Frozen Jr.,” officials said.

The district and North Huntingdon police are investigating. Lucas declined to comment on whether anyone else other than Geyer is involved in the investigation, but said their probe is continuing.

Police Chief Robert Rizzo said their investigation may conclude next week.

When reached by the Tribune-Review on Friday, Geyer referred a reporter to an attorney, who did not return a message.

“Frozen Jr.” was performed Feb. 20, 21 and 22. District officials said they learned about the situation from a parent after rehearsals had concluded.

Parents and guardians of students involved in the production of “Frozen Jr.” were notified recently about the situation. That message said Geyer — who was not identified by name in the district’s communication — was present during several practices and dress rehearsals. No one has reported any specific incident involving him, according to district officials.

Geyer was charged in April 2018 after a teenage girl reported he had sexual contact with her between May 2015 and May 2017. She told investigators that Geyer touched her sexually and allowed her to drink wine at his house.

Geyer previously was a Connellsville City councilman and legislative aide to state Sen. Pat Stefano. He was terminated from his aide position after the charges were filed. He was removed as president of a small Westmoreland County theater, the Geyer Performing Arts Center in Scottdale, after the allegations surfaced.

He had been involved in the theater since the mid-2000s.

Norwin parents or guardians who have information about the situation are asked to contact assistant superintendent Natalie McCracken at nmccracken@norwinsd.org or at 724-861-3000 ext. 1115.

Volunteers and paid employees working with children are required to obtain background checks under a 2014 state law. Volunteers are required to update those clearances every five years. Information about clearances needed is available on the district’s website at norwinsd.org. Norwin has an online system for submitting those records at safekids.norwinsd.org.