The founder of a Delaware County nonprofit created to help people struggling with addiction is accused of paying clients who relied on the organization to survive for sexual favors, officials say.

Lawrence Arata, executive director of Opioid Crisis Action Network in Upper Darby, is accused of human trafficking, patronizing prostitutes, witness intimidation and obstruction of justice, Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer's office said Wednesday.

Arata allegedly used opioid settlement funds from the county and the state to prey on women struggling with addiction, officials say. He is accused of receiving sexual favors from people in recovery in exchange for money, gift cards, bus passes, meal credits and rental assistance, court documents show.

Lawrence Arata

One of the wi

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