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According to News4Jax, accusations of molestation have been brought against a corrections officer with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office located at 501 E Bay St, Jacksonville, FL 32202.
An investigation by the combined efforts of the FBI and JSO’s Integrity and Special Investigations Unit led to the arrest of 39-year-old Zachary S. Kovach, a JSO correction officer "fully vested" since February of 2021. Agents were able to chat online with the corrections officer allowing him to send them a picture of himself engaged in a lewd act on an identifiable minor. Kovach was fired following the arrest and is facing charges including one count of lewd and lascivious molestation and one count of unlawful use of a two-way communication device.
Attorney contributor Michael Haggard is an experienced sexual assault lawyer representing sex abuse victims and their families in the state of Florida. Recently Michael discussed how victims sexually assaulted by a corrections officer could see justice through civil lawsuits.
"In addition to being in a position of authority, corrections officials are respected individuals who the public does not anticipate to betray their loyalty, particularly by engaging in sexual assault. While most members of law enforcement are trustworthy, there have recently been instances of officers abusing their authority to take advantage of vulnerable victims."
"When a person with a position in authority, such as a corrections officer, is charged with sexual abuse, the abuse should be reported and investigated. A criminal investigation will allow the perpetrator to be charged and sentenced. However, victims may have grounds to file a civil lawsuit if negligence was a factor. For instance, if the law enforcement agency failed to implement basic safety precautions, such as extensive background checks, they could be deemed liable. Additionally, if the corrections officer had prior reports of misconduct made against them but were allowed to remain in the position, they could be held accountable for their negligence in a civil court. Victims of sexual abuse should consult with an experienced sexual assault lawyer to learn their legal rights for justice."
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