Illinois state trooper charged with sexual assault while in previous job as a teacher
An Illinois State Police trooper was arrested on allegations he had inappropriate sexual contact with a pair of females — at least one of which was a minor — while he worked at an area high school.
Trooper James T. Dierkes, 29, of Greenville, was charged Friday on one count each of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and criminal sexual assault for incidents that occurred in 2016 while he was employed at Vandalia Community High School, prior to his employment with state police in June 2018.
According to a statement, state police investigators looked into allegations made by a victim who stated she and Dierkes had “inappropriate sexual contact” on multiple occasions while he worked at the school. That investigation lead to a second victim who also alleged similar interactions with Dierkes.
Dierkes was taken into custody Friday, Dec. 6, and was immediately relieved of duty. He is being held at Fayette County Jail pending charges with a bond set at $1 million.
“Illinois State Police Special Agents treated the victim’s allegations as credible and within hours of disclosure initiated an investigation leading to these charges,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “ISP agents are fiercely protective of brave crime victims and fiercely protective of the integrity of the Illinois State Police so we urge any victims to come forward.”
According to Vandalia Radio, Dierkes was an art teacher at Vandalia Community High School. The radio station also reported that at least one of the alleged victims was younger than 18-years-old.
An ISP statement said the agency conducts “lengthy rigorous employment background checks” during the application process for all employees.
Dierkes’ background check included his employment at Vandalia Community High School and showed no evidence of criminal misconduct at the time of his application, according to a statement.
ISP is asking anyone with addition information to call 217-622-0924.
This story was originally published December 6, 2019 at 3:24 PM.