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Strongsville priest charged with child pornography may also have been involved in child prostitution

Prosecutors say they have new evidence against Fr. Robert McWilliams.

CLEVELAND — There are disturbing new details involving a Strongsville priest in jail on child pornography charges.

3News has learned he may have also been involved in a child prostitution ring.

Prosecutors in Geauga County say they have found evidence that Fr. Robert McWilliams may have committed “hands-on physical abuse” and even engaged in child prostitution.

RELATED: Geauga County prosecutors investigating additional charges against Strongsville priest

Details on the allegations remain unclear, while more charges are likely.

In December, McWilliams was arrested at the rectory of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Strongsville.

RELATED: 3News Investigates: Strongsville priest arrested in child pornography case

Investigators say they uncovered child pornography on devices there.

Some of it stretched back years and was allegedly obtained while McWilliams was at St. Helen’s in Geauga County. According to court records, he had coerced a boy into sending nude photos.

Judge Terri Stupica believes Father Robert McWilliams remains a threat and recently agreed to keep his bond high.

“I have to protect the community, and that’s what I tried to do,” she said. “[This] seems to be growing antlers, so who knows what’s yet to come.”

A Cuyahoga County grand jury already indicted McWilliams on 21 counts of child pornography

“I think ultimately the feds are going to take it and justice will ultimately be given in that realm,” Judge Stupica said.

RELATED: Strongsville priest accused in child porn case ordered to submit DNA sample

RELATED: Judge issues $150,000 bond for Strongsville priest facing new child porn charges

RELATED: Strongsville priest accused of posing online as a girl to urge boy to send nude photos

RELATED: Bishop of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County prosecutor speak out after Strongsville priest's arrest

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