Chris Hansen’s Takedown in Harford County has led to multiple arrests after a week-long operation with local deputies. Among those arrested is a 41-year-old Fallston recreation baseball coach accused of trying to meet someone he believed was a 15-year-old boy, Baltimore Chronicle reports, citing WMAR-2 News.
Chris Hansen’s Takedown operation leads to arrests in Harford County
Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler confirmed Hansen and his Takedown crew returned to Maryland. The sheriff’s office worked alongside the television team during the investigation.
Gahler said investigators encountered multiple people allegedly trying to communicate online with individuals they believed were children. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the joint operation publicly.
The latest announced arrests include:
- Robert “Joe” Swarthout, 41, of Fallston;
- Kenneth Goedeke, 45, of Bel Air;
- additional suspects identified during the week-long operation.
Authorities say undercover deputies posed as minors during online conversations. The cases remain allegations unless and until guilt is established in court.
Robert “Joe” Swarthout arrested after alleged online conversation
Investigators say Swarthout was a Fallston Recreation baseball coach. According to the sheriff’s office, he communicated through an online app with an undercover deputy posing as a 15-year-old boy.
Police allege Swarthout continued communicating after being told the person’s age. He then allegedly attempted to arrange an in-person meeting. Deputies arrested him after he arrived at the agreed location.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Robert “Joe” Swarthout |
| Age | 41 |
| Residence | Fallston, Maryland |
| Community role | Recreation baseball coach |
| Charges | 2 felony counts related to solicitation of a minor |
The sheriff’s office described the allegations as particularly troubling because Swarthout held a position involving young people. The criminal case will determine whether prosecutors can prove the allegations.
Harford County operation follows 9 arrests in 2025
This is the second reported collaboration between Chris Hansen’s team and Harford County investigators. Hansen’s previous operation in the county was reported in November 2025 and resulted in 9 arrests.
Sheriff Gahler urged parents to discuss online safety with their children. Anyone with relevant information can contact investigators through the dedicated tipline at cactips@harfordsheriff.org.
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