HARVEY, La.
Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand admits that this is a "sad day" for the JPSO as he announced the arrest of 25-year old Jonathan Este'.
Until his firing Monday night, Este' was a deputy assigned to the department's Third District Patrol Division.
He's now charged with forcible rape and three counts of carnal knowledge of a juvenile.
"The alleged incidents happened when Este' was 22 years of age and the victim was 13," Normand said.
The incidents happened before Este' joined the JPSO in January 2008.
According to investigators, the relationship between Este' and the young girl lasted from July 2005 through February 2006.
Details came to light Saturday, when deputies investigated a "family disturbance" at the victim's home.
"She described meeting Este' via a chart room and the relationship lasted approximately eight months," said Normand. "She described the first incident of sex with Este' as being a forcible rape and the remaining three incidents as consensual."
The department immediately launched a criminal investigation after hearing the victim's story.
The sheriff says Este' was arrested at the JPSO Detectives Bureau last night after he admitted to having sex with the girl four times.
"The problem is the credibly of the officer is impaired and that may have an effect on other cases," said Normand. "That's why we go after it with much fervor."
Normand says this case is a cautionary tale for parents and teenagers who visit chat rooms online.
"It's a very dangerous tool, the internet," said Normand. "You have to be very wary because it has become the prime medium for individuals that are predators."
Este' faces up to 70-years in prison. He remains in the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center. Bond is set at $82,500.
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