PLEASANT GAP – A local 54-year-old man is in prison, charged with trying to repeatedly engage in sex with a 14-year-old female who was actually an undercover FBI agent.

Christopher Z. Morelli allegedly began conversing by private digital messaging with the minor in July 2022 through this month, allegedly asking to “hang out” with the girl, that he could buy her outfits including “sexy things,” and that the girl could model for Morelli at a hotel.

Authorities allege Morelli asked the undercover agent several times if the she would go to a hotel with him and do a “photo shoot,” during which Morelli and the girl could engage in potential sexual acts, according to the arrest affidavit.

The FBI alleges Morelli also told the girl he desired that she visit his home.

Police also alleged he provided the girl with sexually explicit digital images of himself.

Morelli is in the Centre County Prison in lieu of $250,000 bail. He was arrested this morning, according to the Centre County District Attorney’s Office.