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Last updated on Tuesday, March 26, 2013
(SALEM) - Washington County Solid Waste Director and former commissioner has been arrested and charged with a sexual misconduct with a minor.
Albert Michael "Mike" Goering, 59, 321 N. Garrison Hollow Rd., was arrested around 1:45 p.m. Friday on a warrant issued by Judge Larry Medlock in Washington Circuit Court.
Stephanie Taylor Ferriell of the Salem Leader-Democrat reports that Goering is charged with five counts of sexual misconduct with a minor, and one count of attempted sexual misconduct with a minor, all Class B felonies.
Goering served as commissioner 2001-09, and running on the Republican ticket. He also previously served as county engineer. He currently is the county's solid waste director.
The Goering family are among the largest producers of maple syrup in the state and host a maple syrup festival, which attracts thousands to their farm.
Law enforcement officials are releasing few details regarding the case.
The sheriff's department received a complaint of sexual misconduct with a minor from a juvenile and her family on March 5. The victim is under age 16.
Deputy Jimmy Strange of the Washington County Sheriff's Department was assigned to investigate and the Division of Child Services was informed of the allegation. A 12-day investigation resulted in information being obtained that led to the filing of charges.
Goering's bond has been set at $120,000 full cash. He had his initial appearance in circuit court Friday afternoon.
Prosecutor Dustin Houchin has been involved in the case to this point but is stepping away and has requested a special prosecutor.
Special Prosecutor Sonia Leerkamp, from Hamilton County was appointed to handle the case. Houchin says he turned the case over to Leerkamp because Goering is a current county employee and has been politically active in the community.
Goering remains incarcerated at the detention center. He has retained Mark Dove, an attorney from the North Vernon area to represent him.
The investigation is continuing.
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