The South Whitehall Township Police Department has announced that a sexual assault investigation that began in June 2024 ultimately resulted in the conviction of Erik Contes following a trial.

Police said that on June 2, 2024, at approximately 2:32 a.m., Sgt. Andrew Gardo of the department was conducting routine patrol in the area of Wehr Mill and Old Sentry roads when he observed a vehicle stopped along the roadway.

Gardo located a woman outside the vehicle who was severely impaired and in need of medical attention.

Police said a man, later identified as Contes, was also present at the scene. The woman was transported to Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest, where a sexual assault examination was conducted.

Police detectives conducted an extensive investigation. As part of the investigation, DNA samples were collected and submitted for forensic analysis. Testing identified DNA linking Contes to evidence collected during the examination.

Police said Contes was eventually arrested and found guilty of the sexual assault charges.

Police were assisted in their investigation by personnel from the Cetronia Ambulance Corps, Lehigh Valley Health Network and the Pennsylvania State Police Forensic Services Unit.