EAST PIKELAND TWP., Pa. (WPVI) — Police in Chester County have arrested a man who allegedly took advantage of his status as an employee at Burger King to sexually abuse young female colleagues.
According to investigators, 37-year-old Anthony Burns of Spring City faces a long list of charges, including sexual assault, aggravated assault, unauthorized contact with a minor and other related offenses.
According to authorities, the first victim was attacked between December 2023 and February 2024. Burns is accused of sneaking into the teenager’s apartment through a window twice to have sexual intercourse.
Investigators also say Burns sent sexually explicit text messages to a second victim for more than a month and is accused of groping the teen as she left the Burger King in East Pikeland, where both worked.
Burns was arraigned on July 29, 2024, and bail was set at $150,000.
On Thursday, he waived his right to a preliminary hearing.
“This defendant had sex with one child and abused another. Our teenagers should be able to participate in work-related activities without fear of being subjected to such despicable conduct,” said Chester County District Attorney Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe.
In a statement from Burger King, a spokesperson confirmed that Burns is no longer employed by the franchisee, which independently owns and operates the restaurant.
“We were deeply dismayed to learn of the alleged incidents at this location as these allegations are inconsistent with our brand values and the safe work environment all team members should have. The franchisee is working with local authorities. As this is an ongoing investigation, we are unable to provide any further details at this time,” the statement continued.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Chester County Criminal Investigation Division at 610-344-6866.
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