Bethel Police Chief Chad Essert Indicted on 70 Counts of Sexual Misconduct

Bethel Police Chief Chad Essert, 44, of Blanchester, Ohio, has been indicted on 70 felony counts of sexual misconduct, including 56 counts of sexual battery and 14 counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, all third-degree felonies WCPO 9 News+1.

Allegations and Timeline

According to the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office and Prosecutor’s Office, the alleged offenses occurred between 2005 and 2010 while Essert was:

• An instructor at Young Marines
• A teacher at Scarlet Oaks Career Campus in Sharonville, Ohio WCPO 9 News+1

The victim was a student during that period, and the incidents took place at multiple locations in Clermont and Hamilton counties WCPO 9 News+1.

Arrest and Custody

On June 11, 2026, Essert was taken into custody without incident in Seminole, Florida, by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Investigations Section. He was booked into the Pinellas County Jail and remains there awaiting extradition back to Clermont County WCPO 9 News+1.

Legal Status and Penalties

• Indictment date: June 11, 2026
• Charges: 56 counts of sexual battery; 14 counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor Clermont County Prosecutor
• Maximum penalty if convicted on all counts: 280 years in prison WCPO 9 News+1
• Extradition hearing: Scheduled in Pinellas County, Florida WCPO 9 News

Prior Investigation

Essert was placed on paid administrative leave on May 8, 2026, pending investigation. The Clermont County Sheriff’s Office found “no criminal act” in its initial review but closed the case. The Village of Bethel conducted its own investigation before the grand jury indictment WCPO 9 News+1.

Official Statements

• Clermont County Prosecutor Mark Tekulve: Called the case an example of “victims being protected and served regardless of the name or title of the perpetrator” and emphasized that “no one is above the law” WCPO 9 News+1.
• Clermont County Sheriff Chris Stratton: Praised the courage of the victim and stressed that allegations involving public officials are “thoroughly investigated and pursued in accordance with the law” WCPO 9 News+1.

Community Reaction

Residents have expressed shock and sadness, with some noting the gravity of the allegations given Essert’s position of authority WCPO 9 News.

Note: The indictment is independent of earlier reports about Essert’s resignation from a position in Elmwood Place, Ohio, in 2010 over unrelated allegations AOL+1.

Comment:  America has rapists for top ranking police positions under our highly corrupted ZIONIST MAFIA.