Cobb County police officer accused of child cruelty

2 Cobb officers arrested in separate incidents

Two Cobb County police officers, Tyler Bertolini and Withman Benjamin, were recently arrested in separate investigations involving crimes against children. Bertolini faces charges of first and third-degree child cruelty following an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, while Benjamin was arrested by the GBI for sexual battery against a child under 16. Both officers have been placed on administrative leave as the department works to maintain community trust during the legal process.

CHEROKEE COUNTY, Ga. - A Cobb County officer is under investigation for alleged child cruelty, according to police. 

What we know:

Officer Tyler Bertolini was charged with two counts of cruelty to children (first and third degree) following an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office. Bertolini was booked into the Cherokee County Adult Detention Center on Tuesday.

The Cobb County Police Department has placed Bertolini on administrative leave while the legal process plays out. 

What they're saying:

"The expectation in Cobb County is clear. Our officers must uphold the law and conduct themselves with integrity, on and off duty. We are reviewing the facts, respecting due process, and will take appropriate action to maintain the trust of our community," Cobb County Police Chief Dan Ferrell said.

Cobb County PD said they will continue to provide updates as the case progresses. 

SEE ALSO: GBI arrests Cobb County police officer for sexual battery against a child

What we don't know:

The events surrounding the arrest are unclear. FOX 5 has reached out to the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office for further information on what led up to Bertolini's arrest. 

Efforts to reach Bertolini at his home for comment were unsuccessful.