EATON, Ohio – A former Preble County sheriff’s deputy and school resource officer has been found guilty of engaging in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced on Wednesday.
Mason Williams, 26, of Eaton, was convicted of two counts of sexual battery and one count of tampering with evidence, all third-degree felonies. The charges stemmed from his relationship with an 18-year-old student at National Trail High School, where Williams worked as a resource officer.
“Parents shouldn’t have to worry about predators when they send their kids to school,” said Yost. “There is no age or no so-called consent that makes a school employee having sex with a student appropriate.”
Ohio law prohibits school employees from engaging in sexual conduct with students enrolled in the same school, regardless of the student’s age or perceived consent.
Details of the Case
Williams was indicted in March following an investigation by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Prosecutors from Yost’s Special Prosecutions Section presented evidence that Williams violated his position of authority by initiating and maintaining the inappropriate relationship.
Court documents stated that Williams “did engage in sexual conduct with [the victim], not his spouse, while Mason R. Williams was a teacher, administrator, coach, or other person in authority employed by or serving in a school in which [the victim] was enrolled or attended.”
Further investigation revealed Williams deleted electronic communications with the student in an attempt to conceal the relationship, leading to the tampering with evidence charge.
Sentencing Scheduled
Williams is scheduled to be sentenced on December 16 at 1:00 p.m. He faces potential prison time and will be required to register as a sex offender for life.
The case underscores the importance of protecting students from abuse by individuals in positions of authority.