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Thomaston reinstated its EMS chief, Anthony Leo, despite him pleading guilty to sexually abusing a 14-year-old, according to the Midcoast Villager.
Leo was charged in September 2023 with gross sexual assault, unlawful sexual contact and sexual abuse of a minor for offenses that allegedly happened in 2003 against a 14-year-old girl, when he was 28.
Leo entered an Alford plea in Knox County court on a single count of sexual abuse of a minor, meaning he didn’t admit to a crime but admitted that the court had enough evidence to convict him if the case went to trial, according to the Midcoast Villager. As part of the plea deal, the charges of gross sexual assault and unlawful sexual contact were dropped.
Despite the criminal case, the town officials said they had full confidence that Leo would show “dedication to the department and the community he serves,” in a Thursday letter to residents, the Villager reported. “In October 2023, Tony was placed on unpaid administrative leave pending an investigation related to an alleged case from over 20 years ago. A year later, the case was adjudicated. With support from the Select Board, the Town Manager, Fire and EMS personnel, and community members, the Town of Thomaston has reinstated Tony as the Fire and EMS Chief. The town’s leadership and community continue to have full confidence in Tony’s ability to lead the department and oversee future developments.”
Leo was granted a two-year deferred disposition following the plea deal, and is required to attend counseling. He is also barred from spending time with women under the age of 18, unless under supervision, and must complete a restorative justice program with the victim, according to the Villager.
If he adheres to those conditions, the sexual abuse of a minor charge will be dismissed after two years, and he will be convicted of simple assault and imposed a $300 fine. If Leo violates those terms, he will be sentenced on the sexual abuse of a minor charge and risks jail time.