Gwinnett County Police Officer Accused Of Molesting Girl

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA — A Gwinnett County police officer has been taken into custody for allegations he molested a girl who was under the age of 16 years old, authorities said.

Patrick Ventura, who has been with the Gwinnett County Police Department since October 2020, has been charged with sexual battery against a child under the age of 16 years old, two counts of child molestation and violation of oath of office, according to a news release from the Gwinnett County Police Department.

He is currently being held without bail at the Gwinnett County Jail.

Ventura's patrol supervisor launched an investigation into the officer in July after becoming aware of "some inconsistencies" in his patrol activities, according to a news release. As the probe progressed, the special victims unit became involved because the allegations involved a teenage girl under the age of 16 years old.

Ventura, 28, has been served with a letter of intent to terminate, authorities said. No additional details are immediately available.