Charges Dropped in Bristol “Predator Poachers” Case

A Bristol man facing serious sex related allegations had four of the five felony counts against him dropped by the District Attorney’s office at a preliminary hearing last month.

William Rago Jr originally was charged with one felony count criminal attempt – statutory sexual assault: 4-8 years older, one felony count of criminal attempt – unlawful contact with a minor – sexual offenses, one felony count of criminal attempt – corruption of minors – defendant age 18 or above and criminal use of communication facility.

He is now charged with one felony count of child pornography; he waived his right to a preliminary hearing on October 6.

Rago Jr. was released from jail prior to the hearing as his bail was reduced on September 6 to 10 percent of $1000.00 from 10 percent of $50,000.00

Rago Jr.’s arrest came about through the self-proclaimed Predator Poachers’ online advocacy group. He was allegedly expecting to have sex with a 13 year-old girl. A video was posted to Rumble.com. of the encounter with Rago Jr.. The group targets “online predators.”

Rago Jr. is set to appear for a pretrial conference at the Court of Common Pleas on November 20 on the one felony count charge.