The Springfield, Illinois Police Department reported this week that Officer Rodney Groth has been indicted on five charges.
A police statement said that a grand jury in Sangamon County Court has indicted Groth on two counts of official misconduct, two counts of sexual solicitation and one count of aggravated criminal sexual assault.
“We respect the Grand Jury’s decision and the legal process,” Springfield Chief of Police Kenneth Winslow said. “The alleged conduct is not representative of our organization’s morals and values or those of the hardworking men and women of the Springfield Police Department. Officer Groth is no longer employed as a Springfield Police Officer.”
The department was made aware of this alleged activity on Dec. 23, 2015 and an inquiry was conducted within the department. As a result of this, the Illinois State Police were called in to perform an investigation. During that time, Groth was placed on administrative leave and was relieved of all powers associated with the officer position.
Groth had served with the department for 20 years.
In light of the pending legal process, any inquiries should be submitted to the Sangamon County State Attorney, John Milhiser.
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