Blair Co. man accused of buying teen boy 'vape pods' in exchange for sexual favors

BLAIR COUNTY, Pa (WJAC) — State police say a Blair County man is behind bars following a lengthy investigation into allegations that he engaged in a "sexual relationship" with a teenage boy for several years.

According to the affidavit, troopers were first notified in 2021 that Steven Lane, now age 71, of Williamsburg, was reportedly having inappropriate contact with a teenager.

Police say they reviewed dozens of messages between Lane and the victim, which were "sexually graphic" and indicated that the two were engaged in some sort of "relationship."

Authorities say the messages also revealed that Lane was purchasing items, including "vape pods," for the victim in exchange for sexual favors.

Upon further investigation, police say troopers learned that the alleged 'relationship" began when the victim was approximately 14 or 15 years old.

Troopers say the victim described multiple incidents in which Lane reportedly bought him cigarettes or alcohol and then told the teen that "he owed him."

In exchange, investigators say Lane requested nude photographs of the victim before later asking him to perform sexual favors.

Authorities say that when they questioned Lane about the allegations, he reportedly admitted to giving the teen money and buying him vape products.

Police say Lane also claimed that the victim " forced" him to drive him around and stated that the boy "threatened to accuse him of rape."

Investigators say troopers then showed the messages to Lane, at which time he allegedly admitted to performing sexual acts on the victim and requesting sexual photos from him.

Police say Lane also admitted to sexually assaulting the victim's sibling during past encounters.

According to online court records, Lane was arraigned last week on a variety of charges, including felony trafficking, unlawful contact with a minor, sexual extortion and aggravated indecent assault.

He is being held at the Blair County Prison on $75,000 bail.

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