An Ohio police chief is facing serious trouble in Florida after authorities say he was arrested in Pinellas County and booked on sexual battery and false imprisonment charges. Investigators say the alleged victim was taken to a hospital for treatment, and the chief has denied the accusations. Officials in Jefferson Township have since placed him on administrative leave while detectives sort through the case.
According to WTSP, the man arrested is 41-year-old Michael A. Hagan, the police chief of Jefferson Township, Ohio. WTSP reports the arrest happened on Thursday and that Hagan was later booked into the Pinellas County Jail on counts of sexual battery and false imprisonment. The outlet adds that Hagan has denied any wrongdoing and that the investigation remains active.
Arrest in Pinellas County
The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office said detectives arrested Hagan in Pinellas County and are leading the investigation. Law-enforcement officials say investigators took the alleged victim to a hospital for treatment while detectives collected evidence at the scene.
Jefferson Township Response
Jefferson Township's mayor told WTSP the village placed Hagan on administrative leave while the investigation plays out, leaving the small department suddenly short a chief. The mayor did not share additional details, and municipal officials say they are cooperating with detectives as the case moves forward.
Legal Outlook
The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office says Hagan was booked on sexual battery and false imprisonment charges and is the subject of an active criminal investigation. Local prosecutors are expected to review the case as detectives continue gathering evidence and determine whether any additional charges should be filed.
Officials say the probe is ongoing and that more information will be released when appropriate. This story will be updated as new public records or official statements become available.
