PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. — Peter J. Russell, 55, a co-owner of several funeral homes in New York and Pennsylvania, has been arrested following a child sex sting operation in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.
Russell was taken into custody on May 27 after authorities said he attempted to meet what he believed was a 14-year-old girl for sexual purposes. The “girl” was actually a decoy created by an anti-predator organization based in Clearfield County. The Pennsylvania State Police became involved after receiving a tip on May 14.
According to investigators, Russell initiated contact with the decoy on March 31, 2025, and acknowledged the girl’s age early in their exchange. Despite knowing the legal risks, officials said Russell continued to engage in sexual conversations and even researched potential criminal penalties.
He also allegedly sent disturbing images of himself lying in a casket and smiling next to a hearse. Authorities reported that he made plans to meet the girl, booking a hotel room for May 27. That morning, messages showed Russell arranging to meet the girl at Carter Avenue Playground in Punxsutawney Borough at 11 a.m., stating he would bring a “toy” for use during their encounter.
At 10:30 a.m., Russell arrived at the playground, where he was arrested. Police say he admitted to sending the messages and bringing a vibrator, which was later found in his vehicle’s trunk.
Russell faces multiple charges, including:
Statutory sexual assault (1st-degree felony)
Involuntary deviate sexual intercourse (1st-degree felony)
Aggravated indecent assault (2nd-degree felony)
Corruption of minors (3rd-degree felony)
Criminal use of communication facility (3rd-degree felony)
Indecent assault (2nd-degree misdemeanor)
Russell is listed as a co-owner and funeral director at Carpenter’s Funeral Home and Phillips Funeral Home in Corning, NY, as well as Flint Funeral Home in Addison. He is also a certified celebrant authorized to officiate funerals and life events.
