Gerald Garrison arrested on sexual battery charge in Ramona
Ramona police officer Gerald Garrison has been arrested after allegedly sexually assaulting a city worker during a ride-along, court records show.
Gerald Garrison was arrested in Ramona following accusations that he sexually assaulted a city worker. The incident allegedly occurred during a police ride-along. Court documents state the 67-year-old is set to face charges of Sexual Battery and Forcible Sodomy.
A probable cause affidavit states Garrison reached out to the police chief around 9:58 p.m. on Friday. He informed the chief that Ramona Mayor Cyle Miller suspended him. Authorities said the department then contacted Miller to ask about the sudden suspension.
Miller told the department about a worker complaint. The employee reported improper touching and forced sexual conduct during a ride-along. Documents show the employee was interviewed by investigators.
The victim claimed Garrison touched them inappropriately inside his police cruiser. He then took the worker to Ramona City Hall. The employee reported further sexual contact occurred there.
Surveillance video and physical evidence found at the building appear to support the testimony, the affidavit states. Investigators interviewed Garrison at around 2:15 p.m. on Saturday.
Garrison admitted to some sexual contact with the employee at city hall, according to court documents. He denied touching beyond kissing. Washington County Jail records show officers arrested him at around 3:17 p.m. on Saturday.
A probable cause affidavit outlines the formal allegations used to justify an arrest in criminal court. Judges review these sworn statements to determine whether formal criminal charges will move forward. Law enforcement agencies then transfer booking records to the county detention facility.
Garrison was booked into the Washington County Jail following the investigation in Ramona.
