Religious Youth Leader Arrested

A former south New Jersey religious youth director who was arrested and accused of molesting several children is now free on bond.

John Andrew Baldino is suspected of fondling seven teenagers over the last several years.

When police arrived at Baldino's house, his neighbors were stunned to find out why they were here. He had been a trusted director of a youth group, but police say Baldino, 33, violated that trust.

Baldino was arrested at his Evesham Township home Monday on five counts of criminal sexual conduct and five counts of offensive touching involving seven teenage boys from 1996 to 2003.

"They're younger kids, so they come and go and come and go. They stay some pretty late hours sometimes. But we don't know them and we just mind our own business," said Bill Griechen, a neighbor.

Investigators say the alleged sexual contact occurred at Baldino's homes over the years during youth meetings he hosted.

"It does concern me, of course. They have small children. I've seen the little children outside," said Beverly Durkin, a neighbor.

Baldino was released on bail. His attorney said that he and Baldino had no comment, other than to say his client will sit back and let the justice system work.

Baldino's first preliminary hearing will take place March 24.

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