Custodian accused of sex assault

1/16/2009

WAUSEON - An elementary school custodian was arraigned in Fulton County Common Pleas Court yesterday on sexual-assault charges after being indicted earlier this week for alleged sexual contact with an 8-year-old student at the school nine years ago.

Kent D. Reichert, 60, of Wauseon, is charged with one count each of rape and gross sexual imposition under the indictment handed up Monday by a Fulton County grand jury.

Mr. Reichert, a custodian at Leggett Street Primary School, was released on his own recognizance following his initial court appearance, subject to electronic monitoring and on condition that he refrain from contact with minors.

According to the Fulton County Sheriff's Office, the assaults of which Mr. Reichert is accused happened between March and June, 2000, but only came to light in November when the alleged victim reported them to a social worker at Fulton County Job and Family Services.

The incident report states that Mr. Reichert "inappropriately touched" the girl.

Marc A. Robinson, superintendent of the Wauseon Exempted Village School District, said Mr. Reichert was placed on administrative leave as soon as the district received notice of the complaint, and will remain on such leave pending conclusion of the case.

Under administrative leave, he will continue to be paid, said Mr. Robinson, who declined further comment.