Ohio police chief Chad Essert, 44, was arrested in Seminole, Florida, on Tuesday night following a 70-count indictment for alleged child sex crimes. The Clermont County grand jury charged Essert with 56 counts of sexual battery and 14 counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, all third-degree felonies. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 280 years in prison.
The allegations stem from offenses authorities claim occurred between 2005 and 2010, when Essert was an instructor at the Young Marines and a teacher at Scarlet Oaks Career Campus in Sharonville, Ohio. Officials said the alleged victim was a student of Essert’s, and the crimes took place across multiple locations in Clermont and Hamilton counties.
Clermont County Sheriff Chris Stratton emphasized the significance of the victim’s courage in coming forward, stating, 'It takes tremendous courage for a victim to come forward, especially when the accused wears a badge and holds a position of authority.' Prosecutor Mark Tekulve echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that victims are 'protected and served regardless of the name or title of the perpetrator.'
Officials clarified that the charges are unrelated to a separate investigation involving Essert that was previously reported by local media. Essert resigned from a position in Bethel, Ohio, following the indictment.