CLEVELAND — WARNING: This story contains graphic details of an alleged sexual crime. Reader discretion is advised.
A Cuyahoga County grand jury on Monday officially indicted a Cleveland police officer on multiple charges of sexual assault.
Officer Matthew Piter is charged with rape and gross sexual imposition in connection with an alleged incident that occurred back in October. The 26-year-old was arrested that month but is currently out on bond.
According to both the incitement and the original criminal complaint, Piter was at his home back on Oct. 24 with a 29-year-old woman when he allegedly pushed her up against a wan, grabbed her breasts, and penetrated her with his fingers. The victim said she told Piter to stop and attempted to get away, but Piter continued with his actions.
Piter has been with the Cleveland Division of Police as a patrol officer since September of 2016, but is currently suspended without pay as the criminal investigation continues. He is also prohibited from contacting his accuser in any way and may not possess any type of weapon.
Should he be convicted, Piter could face more than a decade in prison.
