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

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. - The Georgia Bureau of Investigation arrested a Cobb County police officer for sexually assaulting a child under 16, the agency said.

What we know:

According to the GBI, investigators began looking into a claim of child abuse in September. As a result of the investigation, Cobb County Police Officer Withman Benjamin, 47, of Canton, was arrested on Jan. 9.

Officials said Benjamin was charged with sexual battery against a child under 16 and booked into the Cherokee County Jail. The case will be turned over to the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office once the investigation is complete.

What they're saying:

The news left those in Benjamin’s community struggling to reconcile the charges with the man they knew.

"I’m very surprised, to say the least," one neighbor said. "At first, I almost didn’t want to believe it. You know, as a police officer, you expect them to keep us safe and especially our children safe. What made it extra shocking was that he’s a very nice guy and very friendly and personable."

SEE ALSO: Cobb County police officer accused of child cruelty

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation arrested a Cobb County police officer for sexually assaulting a child under 16, the agency said.

Dig deeper:

According to the Cobb County Police Department, Benjamin has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the legal process.

In a statement sent to FOX 5, Chief Dan Ferrell said:

"The residents of Cobb County expect and deserve law enforcement officers who uphold the law and demonstrate integrity at all times, both on and off duty. We are committed to following the facts, respecting due process, and taking all appropriate action to maintain the trust and confidence of our community."