Editor’s note: This story, originally published at 11:48 a.m. on April 22, 2026, was updated at 2:20 p.m. on April 22, 2026, to add comments from Bilecky’s attorney, James Papirmeister.
A 41-year-old archaeological researcher and explorer from Chevy Chase, who shared his experiences and theories on “The Joe Rogan Experience” in early February, was arrested later that month and is facing multiple rape and assault charges.
Michael Raul Bilecky, creator of the “Pillars of the Past” YouTube show, faces nine counts of second-degree rape without consent, a felony charge, and nine counts of second-degree assault, which is a misdemeanor, according to online court records. The offenses allegedly occurred from April 2025 to January 2026…