SMETHPORT — Following a two-day trial in McKean County Court, a Smethport man has been convicted of sex crimes against a child.

Robert Allen Tanner, 50, was convicted on all 17 counts alleging rape, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, endangering the welfare of children, indecent assault of a minor and more.

The complaint had charged Tanner with crimes against a juvenile from Sept. 26, 2021 to Feb. 23, 2023.

District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer said the juvenile victim reported to a school aid that Tanner had committed sex acts on him. The aid reported it through ChildLine, prompting a Children and Youth Services caseworker to meet with the child at the school.

Throughout the two day trial, the school aid, CYS caseworker, forensic interviewer, family advocate and an expert on child abuse disclosure testified before the jury. The minor child also testified about the assaults.

Tanner also testified, Shaffer said.

Tanner was ordered to undergo an assessment by the Sexual Offender Assessment Board to determine if he meets the definition of sexually violent predator. An assessment is required under Pennsylvania law for anyone convicted of sex offenses. Because the board has 90 days to complete its assessment, sentencing was scheduled for Nov. 7.

Shaffer advised her intention to seek sentencing enhancements provided for in the sentencing code for rape on a victim under 13 and involuntary deviate sexual intercourse on a victim under 16. These enhancements allow for a lengthier sentence than the guidelines provide for in Pennsylvania.

Tanner has remained jailed since he was charged by state police, on $300,000 bail. Since the verdict, his bail was increased to $500,000.

Shaffer prosecuted the case. Tanner was represented by defense attorney Richard Roberts of Bethlehem.

If you suspect child abuse, call Childline at (800) 932-0313 and 911.