NewsLocal NewsCuyahoga County

Actions

Cleveland officer accused of having an inappropriate relationship with 17-year-old pleads not guilty

Posted

A Cleveland police officer accused of having an inappropriate relationshipwith a 17-year-old girl pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Monday.

Thomas Tewell, 32, pleaded not guilty to his charges of unauthorized use of property and disseminating matter harmful to juveniles.

Tewell posted his $1,500 bond, according to court records.

In February, the Rocky River Police Department said it received a complaint from Cleveland police filed by a Rocky River resident against a Cleveland officer regarding the relationship.  The complainant was the 17-year-old girl's parent, according to police.

Tewell has been suspended without pay pending the outcome of the case, according to Cleveland police.

His first pretrial hearing is set for August 13 at 9:00 a.m.