Berlin therapist to stand trial for assaulting teen, authorities say

SOMERSET, Pa. – A Berlin Borough woman will stand trial, accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old boy at a youth home in Somerset County in 2023, authorities said.

Kayla Lee Howard, 30, of the 200 block of Juniata Street, was ordered to trial following a preliminary hearing before District Judge Scott Walker, of Somerset.

According to a complaint affidavit, state police started the investigation after receiving multiple ChildLine reports alleging inappropriate conversations and contact with juveniles who either lived at the Somerset County Youth Aid Home or attended the partial program there.

Howard, at the time, was a licensed therapist employed by the Somerset County Youth Aid Home, the affidavit said.

A 14-year-old student told investigators during an April 24 interview that Howard allegedly performed inappropriate acts during therapy sessions from June 2023 to August 2023.

The juvenile believed that he would have to remain longer at the Youth Aid Home if he did not cooperate with Howard.

Howard is no longer employed by the organization, authorities said.

Troopers charged Howard with rape, statutory sexual assault, deviate sexual intercourse, sexual assault and related counts.

Howard is free on bond awaiting formal arraignment in Somerset County court.