Published December 31. 2021 01:45PM
A Tamaqua School District employee was fired in August after being allegedly caught in a sex sting on video.
Zachary A. Blihar was system employee and esports coach with the Tamaqua Area School District.
A video of a Tamaqua Area man in an alleged sex sting was posted on YouTube and social media by Musa Harris, of Kingston.
Superintendent Ray Kinder said in August the district is “aware of the allegations and that we are actively addressing them according to established procedures in the best interest and safety of our students and staff.”
Police Chief Michael Hobbs said he didn’t have an update on the case. Charges have not yet been filed.
Harris, who identifies himself as the Luzerne County Predator Catcher, said he went to the Turkey Hill at West Hazleton at exit 143 off Interstate 81.
He said he was chatting with a man from Tamaqua on the app Grindr. The two exchange messages and photos.
The man in the car said he is there to meet Josh and is the questioned by Harris, who had identified himself as “Josh.” He tells the man he is 15.
“So what,” the man replies.
Harris then asks if he wants to talk to him or the police. Harris said he is there for awareness. The man in the car later drives off after talking to Harris for more than 10 minutes.