The West Milton Police Division arrested North on Wednesday, said police Chief Doyle Wright.
“The arrest came after a complaint was filed with the police division a few days prior alleging Mr. North had inappropriate interactions with a child under the age of 13 while working as a school janitor for Milton-Union Schools. The incidents are alleged to have happened two or more years ago after school hours on school property. "
North, who has been employed as a custodian for Milton-Union Exempted Village Schools since June 2017, was placed on unpaid administrative leave, Superintendent Brad Ritchey said.
He remains held in the Miami County Jail on a $800,000 cash-only bail set Wednesday after charges were filed in Miami County Municipal Court and a hearing scheduled for May 11. However, following North’s indictment by a county grand jury the case against him has moved to Common Pleas Court.
Credit: Miami County Jail
Credit: Miami County Jail
The criminal complaint for the rape and intimidation charges filed in municipal court alleges between 2018 and 2021 that North assaulted a child during the ages of 6 to 9 at 7620 Milton-Potsdam Road, which is the address of the elementary school,
The gross sexual imposition charges are for incidents alleged to have happened in West Milton Municipal Park between 2018 and 2021 involving a child younger than 12, the complaint states.
The West Milton Police Division said the investigation is ongoing. Anyone who may have information concerning North is urged to contact the department through through the Miami County Communication Center at 937-440-9911.
Milton-Union Schools posted a statement Thursday about the incident on the district’s website:
“It has come to the district’s attention that concerns are being raised on social media about district employee Jerry L. North. The district is aware of the criminal charges that were filed against Mr. North (Wednesday), May 3, 2023, in the Miami County Municipal Court and understands that allegations underlying such charges are generally distressing.
“The district has been responsive and cooperative in the investigation conducted by the West Milton (Police Division) and will continue to comply with its obligations under the law. the district’s various legal obligations prevent it from addressing many of the questions it is receiving from the community.
“Please be assured that the district is, and always has been, committed to the safety and best interests of its students. We take that responsibility very seriously. To that end, it has regularly completed criminal background checks of all its employees and thoroughly investigated allegations brought to its attention, taking action where the facts demonstrate it is necessary and appropriate.”
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