Lancaster County, PA – A 28-year-old New York man is facing serious criminal charges after authorities say he sexually assaulted two teenage girls in separate Pennsylvania townships following online contact through social media and so-called “friend finder” apps. Federal and local law enforcement agencies worked together to locate and arrest the suspect after he allegedly failed to surrender on multiple warrants.
According to officials, the suspect used deceptive online tactics to gain the trust of minors before arranging in-person meetings that ended in alleged sexual assaults inside his vehicle.
Incident Overview
Authorities identified the suspect as Dijani Brown, 28, of New York. Investigators allege Brown communicated with underage girls through social media platforms and apps designed to connect users with new friends. During those interactions, officials say he misrepresented his age, arranged meetings, and then carried out sexual assaults.
The cases span two Pennsylvania counties and involve victims who were 13 and 14 years old at the time of the alleged incidents.
Timeline of Events
The first reported incident occurred on October 12 in Manor Township, Lancaster County, where police allege Brown sexually assaulted a 13-year-old girl after meeting her online.
Just two days later, on October 14, officials say Brown targeted a second victim — a 14-year-old girl — in Horsham Township, Montgomery County, approximately 90 miles east of the first location.
Investigators believe the proximity in time and the similar method of contact raised immediate concerns about an escalating pattern of behavior.
Details From Police and Federal Officials
Following the Horsham Township incident, an arrest warrant was issued in Montgomery County on November 20. Horsham police then requested assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force to help locate Brown.
A second arrest warrant related to the Lancaster County case was issued on January 20.
Despite the active warrants in both counties, officials say Brown did not surrender to authorities, prompting an expanded search involving federal task forces in multiple states.
Arrest and Extradition Status
Law enforcement eventually tracked Brown to a family member’s residence in Yonkers, New York, roughly 15 miles north of Midtown Manhattan.
He was taken into custody by members of the U.S. Marshals New York/New Jersey Regional Task Force, with assistance from investigators assigned to the Marshals Task Force in Philadelphia.
After his arrest, Brown was transported to the Westchester County Jail, where officials say he is currently awaiting extradition to Pennsylvania to face charges in both counties.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Suspect: Dijani Brown, 28, New York
- Victims: Two girls, ages 13 and 14
- Locations: Manor Township (Lancaster County) and Horsham Township (Montgomery County)
- Dates: October 12 and October 14
- Method: Online contact via social media and “friend finder” apps
- Arrest Location: Yonkers, New York
- Current Status: Awaiting extradition to Pennsylvania
Official Statement
Federal officials emphasized the seriousness of crimes involving minors and the importance of coordinated law enforcement efforts.
“The arrest of Dijani Brown removes a sexual predator from the community and underscores the seriousness with which the Marshals Service treats warrants involving children,” said Robert Clark, Supervisory Deputy Marshal for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
Additional Context on Online Safety and Predatory Behavior
Law enforcement agencies continue to warn parents and guardians about the risks posed by online platforms where age verification may be limited. Predators often use false identities, misleading profile photos, or fabricated personal details to gain access to minors.
Officials encourage families to discuss online safety openly, monitor app usage, and report suspicious behavior immediately. Early reporting can prevent repeat offenses and help authorities intervene before additional victims are harmed.
Conclusion
The arrest of Dijani Brown concludes a multi-county, multi-state search involving local police and federal task forces, but the legal process is far from over. Brown is expected to face charges in both Lancaster and Montgomery counties once extradited, as investigators continue to review evidence from the alleged assaults.
Authorities stress that cooperation between agencies and prompt reporting by victims are critical in cases involving crimes against children.
If you have information related to similar incidents or concerns about online safety, contact local law enforcement. Share your experiences in the comments below.
