URGENT UPDATE: The Delaware County District Attorney has charged Lawrence Arata, the executive director of the Opioid Crisis Action Network, with serious crimes including human trafficking and coercion for sexual favors from vulnerable clients. Jack Stollsteimer, the Delaware County DA, announced these shocking allegations today, confirming that Arata misused funds intended for addiction recovery.
Arata, 65, turned himself in to the DA’s Criminal Investigation Division on Wednesday and subsequently posted bail. He faces charges that also include patronizing prostitutes, obstruction of justice, and witness intimidation. No legal representation for Arata is currently listed in online court records, and he has not responded to requests for comment.
The charges stem from a disturbing investigation initiated by the Criminal Investigation Division in cooperation with the Upper Darby Police Department. According to Stollsteimer, the investigation revealed that Arata allegedly exploited his position to solicit sexual favors from women battling addiction, offering them incentives such as meal credits, gift cards, and rental assistance in exchange for sexual acts.
“Our investigation concluded that Larry Arata cynically and cruelly misused those funds as leverage to satisfy his sexual desires,” Stollsteimer stated. He emphasized the need for any additional victims to come forward, urging them to reach out to the Victim’s Assistance Center of Delaware County.
The Opioid Crisis Action Network, founded by Arata and his wife, Heather Arata, in 2018, was established to support individuals struggling with substance use disorders. The organization has received significant funding from opioid settlement money, intended to aid recovery efforts in Delaware County and beyond. This makes the allegations particularly alarming, as the funds were meant to provide help, not exploitation.
Witnesses have come forward, detailing incidents that occurred at various hotels within Delaware County and other locations, highlighting the predatory behavior attributed to Arata. Stollsteimer has called for anyone with further information to contact his office immediately.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for November 27, 2023, where more details are expected to emerge. The community is left stunned as these allegations surface, raising critical questions about the integrity of organizations meant to support those in dire need.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
