JACKSON, Miss. – A Mississippi police officer accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl died Monday morning in an apparent suicide, the Jackson Police Department said.
The officer, who police did not name, was found in a Dodge Charger at around 12:45 p.m. The officer had pulled off the side of the highway, police spokesman Roderick Holmes said.
The apparent suicide follows allegations from a local attorney that the officer sexually assaulted a 15-year-old repeatedly in the back of a police cruiser. The department had opened a criminal and internal investigation into the allegations, Holmes said.
Several sexually explicit videos show the officer with the minor in the back of his patrol car, Attorney Lisa Ross also said.
Ross, who represents the mother of the alleged victim, told Jackson’s WLBT-TV that the teen’s mother reported the alleged misconduct to Chief James Davis on Saturday.
Holmes said the officer was placed on administrative leave Saturday after the department learned of the assault allegations.
More: Mississippi officer accused of sexually abusing 15-year-old for months
Earlier on Monday, Holmes held a news conference to address the sexual assault allegations against the officer.
“All matters involving assault we take very seriously, We want the family to understand that if at any point in time, there’s evidence of wrongdoing going on, we will not hesitate to take action,” Holmes said at the event.
When asked if the reported suicide on the highway earlier in the day was connected to the officer accused of sexually assaulting the girl, Holmes had said there was “no knowledge right now it’s connected.”
If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts you can call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) any time of day or night or chat online.
Follow Justin Vicory on Twitter: @justinvicory
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