A Pennsylvania university police officer has been jailed on charges of sexually assaulting two young children, authorities say.

Joseph Gallagher, 40, an officer with the East Stroudsburg University police department, was arrested Monday. He faces several charges, including rape of a child and aggravated indecent assault of a child.

According to a criminal affidavit, Gallagher allegedly raped and assaulted a 10-year-old girl three times in 2021. He is also accused of sexually assaulting a 4-year-old child at least twice in 2026.

A university spokesperson said the allegations are unrelated to Gallagher’s employment with the university. Once officials learned of the investigation, he was placed on leave pending the outcome of the case.

“The University takes all allegations seriously and follows established policies and procedures when matters are brought to our attention involving University employees,” the spokesperson said.

Gallagher is being held in Monroe County Prison. A judge denied him bail to “assure community safety.” The charges are allegations, and the case will proceed through the courts.