EATON, Ohio — A former Preble County sheriff’s deputy and school resource officer at National Trail High School has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after being convicted of engaging in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student.
Mason Williams, 26, of Eaton, was found guilty in November of two counts of sexual battery and one count of tampering with evidence. The charges stem from a relationship with an 18-year-old student at the school where he worked. Ohio law prohibits school staff or resource officers from engaging in sexual relationships with students, regardless of their age or consent.
Legal Consequences
Williams’ conviction was based on evidence presented by the Ohio Attorney General’s Special Prosecutions Section. Prosecutors detailed both the relationship and Williams’ actions to interfere with the investigation. In addition to serving 18 months in prison, Williams is required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
Context of the Law
Under Ohio law, those in positions of authority, such as school resource officers, are prohibited from engaging in sexual conduct with students in the schools where they work. The law is designed to protect students from potential exploitation or undue influence by individuals in positions of power.
The sentencing concludes the case, bringing resolution to a matter that raised concerns about the responsibilities of individuals entrusted with student safety and support.