Police Chief Faces 70 Felony Charges

Bethel’s police chief, Chad Essert, is now in Florida custody facing 70 felony charges—including 56 counts of sexual battery and 14 counts involving minors—spanning from 2005 to 2010. Charged by a grand jury in Ohio, he’s awaiting extradition back there to stand trial, with legal experts saying extradition challenges rarely succeed. The alleged abuse occurred while he taught at Scarlet Oaks and led Young Marines, and advocates note survivors often come forward years later due to fear or lack of evidence. Already placed on administrative leave in May over another investigation, a conviction could mean up to 280 years in prison. Bethel has been contacted for comment as the legal process moves forward. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/560b450f372bf73b