Post by KC on Jun 29, 2006 19:57:33 GMT -5
June 29, 2006 - Laurel Police Officer Kevin Hovatter is charged with rape and official police misconduct. He allegedly raped a woman on Route 24 just outside Laurel back in March. The woman says Hovatter coerced her to get in his car during a traffic stop. After the alleged rape, the woman says Hovatter just took her home.
A few hours later, the victim came to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital, where a rape kit was given. Medical examiners later matched that sample with Hovatter's DNA. That's when it was time for him to turn in his gun and badge.
"His police powers are suspended during that time. He doesn't work, he doesn't have any interaction with the police department."
Laurel Police Chief Michael Wilson says his department took the alleged victim's claims seriously and immediately put Hovatter on leave with pay.
"Once formal charges are filed against the officer, that's when their employment status will change from administrative leave with pay to administrative leave without pay," Wilson said.
In Hovatter's case, those formal charges were filed Wednesday.
Hovatter has been released on $72,000 bond.
www.wmdt.com/topstory/displaystory.asp?id=2573
A few hours later, the victim came to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital, where a rape kit was given. Medical examiners later matched that sample with Hovatter's DNA. That's when it was time for him to turn in his gun and badge.
"His police powers are suspended during that time. He doesn't work, he doesn't have any interaction with the police department."
Laurel Police Chief Michael Wilson says his department took the alleged victim's claims seriously and immediately put Hovatter on leave with pay.
"Once formal charges are filed against the officer, that's when their employment status will change from administrative leave with pay to administrative leave without pay," Wilson said.
In Hovatter's case, those formal charges were filed Wednesday.
Hovatter has been released on $72,000 bond.
www.wmdt.com/topstory/displaystory.asp?id=2573