An Ohio police chief accused in a yearslong pattern of child sex abuse against a former student was arrested last week in Florida.
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Clermont County, Ohio, authorities on Thursday brought sexual battery and unlawful sexual conduct with a minor charges against Bethel Police Chief Chad Essert after the top cop was accused in an abuse scheme that happened while he worked as a teacher.
“It takes tremendous courage for a victim to come forward, especially when the accused wears a badge and holds a position of authority,” Clermont County Sheriff Chris Stratton said following the indictment.
“[The] indictment demonstrates that no one is above the law. Every victim deserves to be heard, and every allegation will be thoroughly investigated and pursued in accordance with the law.”
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Prosecutors said Chief Essert, 44, preyed on the victim between 2005 and 2010 while working as an instructor at the “Young Marines” and a teacher at the Scarlet Oaks Career Campus in suburban Cincinnati.
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office arrested Chief Essert on Thursday night in Seminole, Florida. He awaits extradition back to Ohio.
Chief Essert was reportedly placed on administrative leave last month after Clermont County authorities opened an investigation. He requested leave shortly afterward.
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