TRUCKSVILLE — A 20-year-old firefighter is facing felony charges for allegedly having sex with a 13-year-old girl.
Joshua James Ralston, of Dallas, allegedly had sex with the girl at her home in December and February while the girl’s mother was away, according to the affidavit, which notes police received a tip about the alleged contact in April.
The girl, now 14, told police she knew Ralston previously, and became reacquainted when she began serving as a junior firefighter last fall, the affidavit says.
Ralston, a firefighter with Trucksville Volunteer Fire and Rescue, admitted to having sex with the girl but claimed she “wanted it as much as (he) did,” according to the affidavit. Ralston was 19 at the time.
Ralston allegedly said he knew he could get in trouble for having sex with the girl, but did it anyway because it “brought him happiness,” the affidavit says.
The fire company’s website lists Ralston as a member, though it was unclear whether he still volunteers there. A message left at the fire company Tuesday was not immediately returned.
Ralston was arraigned Thursday on two counts each of statutory sexual assault, aggravated indecent assault, unlawful contact with a minor, corruption of minors, and criminal use of a communication facility. His next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 24.
Ralston is free after posting $25,000 bail.
