Tyrone Rolls, a 51-year-old former police sergeant from Ocean City, New Jersey, has pleaded guilty to one count of official misconduct in a case involving the sexual abuse of a minor. The victim, who was allegedly assaulted by Rolls for five years beginning when she was just 13 years old, accused him of using his position as a police officer to intimidate and coerce her.

Rolls was indicted on November 16, 2021, on charges of aggravated sexual assault, two counts of official misconduct, one count of endangering the welfare of a child, and one count of witness tampering. However, he reached a plea deal with prosecutors that would require him to serve five years in prison and forfeit his job and pension in exchange for pleading guilty to one count of official misconduct.

Once considered a “hero” and “role model” in the community, Tyrone Rolls had received a “key to Ocean City” in 2019 for his heroism in saving two people from drowning. He was also involved in community outreach programs, mentoring youth, coaching basketball, and organizing anti-violence rallies.

Rolls joined the Ocean City Police Department in 1996 and rose to the rank of sergeant. He was assigned to the patrol division and served as a school resource officer at Ocean City High School.

Rolls’ sentencing is scheduled for March 17, 2023, before Judge Bernard DeLury. The case has caused shock and outrage in the community, which trusted Rolls to protect and serve them. The victim, whose identity has not been revealed, is now an adult and is said to be struggling with the aftermath of the abuse.