Jenkintown athletic director charged in child-sex case

The Jenkintown School District's athletic director has been arrested on charges of having a sexual relationship in 2010 with a then-17-year-old Jenkintown High School student.

Mark Citron, 43, of Philadelphia, faces charges of corruption of minors, endangering the welfare of a child, and criminal use of a communications facility, Montgomery County District Attorney Risa Vetri Ferman and Jenkintown Police Chief Albert DiValentino said in a joint statement.

They said the allegations against Citron came to light recently through an anonymous call to Childline.

Based on the information provided to the help line, investigators were able to identify the victim, now 19, and confirmed with her that she had a sexual relationship with Citron for more than six months in 2010, the officials said.

The sexual contact, including at least one instance of sexual intercourse, took place at Citron's office at the high school, according to the joint statement.

Other witnesses and phone records, including about 900 text messages, supported the allegations, Ferman and DiValentino said.

Citron surrendered to authorities and was arraigned before District Judge Juanita Price, who set bail at $250,000.

A preliminary hearing is set for March 8.

- Inquirer staff