BELLAIRE, Ohio — The Salvation Army Northeast Ohio Division has relieved Major Louis Patrick of his duties at its Bellaire Corps Community Center following prosecutors charging him with a felony sexual battery charge.
Patrick, the former head of the Bellaire post, faces a fifth-degree felony charge after a female worker at the center reported an incident of alleged sexual misconduct to the Bellaire Police Department earlier this month. According to published reports, the woman contacted authorities on April 7, prompting an investigation by local police.
After conducting interviews with multiple individuals connected to the case, the Bellaire Police Department referred its findings to the Belmont County Prosecutor’s Office. Prosecutors then formally charged Patrick with one count of sexual battery. The case was filed directly through Belmont County courts, and Patrick was not arrested, police confirmed. A protection order has also been issued on behalf of the alleged victim.
In response to the charge, the Salvation Army’s Northeast Ohio Division released a statement acknowledging the situation.
“The Salvation Army can confirm that Major Louis Patrick of our Bellaire, OH, Corps Community Center has been charged with sexual battery following a complaint lodged by an adult female worker at the Community Center,” the statement said. “Major Patrick has been removed from his position pending the result of his trial. The Salvation Army is doing everything we can to support the person who made these allegations and other staff and volunteers at the Bellaire Corps Community Center who this incident may impact.”
Follow River News Network for updates to this developing story.
