A Florida cop has been arrested by his own colleagues on allegations of sexually abusing a minor on a programme for future law enforcement officers.
Matthew Allen Anderson, 21, of Bay County Sheriff’s Office admitted he had met the teenage victim for sex on up to seven occasions.
At least two of the incidents happened when Deputy Anderson was in uniform and on patrol in his vehicle.
The suspect was an adviser on the Explorer Program, a training programme aimed at youths interested in a career in law enforcement.
Anderson was charged with sexual battery upon a child 12 years of age or older but under 18 years of age by a person in familial or custodial authority.
He posted a surety bond of USD 25,000 (GBP 22,400) and has an arraignment scheduled for 15th December.
His workplace has placed him on unpaid leave.
In a statement obtained by Newsflash, Bay County Sheriff’s Office said: “The Bay County Sheriff’s Office announced today [18th October] the arrest of a deputy for Sexual Battery: Person in Custodial Authority.
“Matthew Anderson, age 21, was arrested today and taken to the Bay County Jail.
“At approximately 9:30AM today, information was received that a field deputy at the BCSO that served in an advisory position in the BCSO Explorer program was engaging in sexual activity with a 17-year-old member of the Explorers.
“An investigation began into the allegations. Within a few hours, Anderson was arrested.
“When interviewed, Anderson admitted to five to seven sexual encounters with the victim, sometimes while he was on duty.
“After review by the State Attorney’s Office, a warrant for Anderson was obtained.
“He has been placed on unpaid leave from the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Tommy Ford will be meeting with the parents of other Explorers in the program tonight to offer them the opportunity to ask any questions directly from the Sheriff.
Sheriff Ford said on 18th October at a press conference about the arrest: “The Bay County Jr. Deputy and Explorer Program is a program for youth that are interested in law enforcement.
“It breaks my heart to know the damage that these actions have caused our kids in the program.
“I stand behind the leadership of the Jr. Deputy and Explorer Program for all of the good work that they have done with the kids in this program, and as they work to rebuild the trust of the parents and kids.
“We will not let the actions of one person destroy the many positive successes of this program.”
