CAMDEN, N.J., Feb. 20 (UPI) -- A musician was charged Wednesday with molesting at least five boys during 30 years as an organist at churches in South New Jersey.

Joseph Cuthbert, 71, of Winslow was held in the Camden County Jail after bail was set at $250,000, the South Jersey Times reported. He faces charges that include five counts of aggravated sexual assault.


Police said the investigation began when a boy said Cuthbert began molesting him in September. Eventually, investigators said, five more boys and men came forward and reported past abuse.

Police said Cuthbert met all the victims as an organist. He most recently worked as a volunteer at Erial Community Church in Gloucester Township.

Neighbors told KYW-TV in Philadelphia Cuthbert appeared to be a devout Christian.

"I thought it was a joke. I really did," Joan Warner said. "I still can't believe it really."