A custodian from Columbus Indian Off-Road Primary School was placed on administrative holidays after being arrested on Friday afternoon, initially reported by our news partner WBNS 10TV.
Rick Andermatt, 41, faces multiple charges, including obscene sex involving minors and sexual orientations, WBNS said.
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The 16-year-old victim's mother contacted Columbus police on Monday. According to WBN, the victim did not go to school and confirmed it was safe.
WBN said Andermatt was accused of communicating with the victim over the phone for months and had tried several times to meet her for sex.
The victim told police that she had sent clear videos to Andermatt in the past, but had deleted them.
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A detective was allowed to take over the victim's phone call and began communicating with Andermatt. The detective was able to obtain videos and pictures previously sent by the victim and get clear photos from Andermatt, WBNS said.
Andermatt reportedly admitted to having photos and videos after his arrest. According to WBN, he also admitted that he knew the victim was only 18 years old.
The Winchester Canal local school district issued the following statement:
“The administrative leave trustees who came into effect on Friday, April 25 immediately after learning that the employee was arrested for sexual orientation materials toward minors. The employee has been informed that they are not allowed to participate in any district activities on school property or on administrative leave.
“While we understand that this matter does not involve any of our students, we take the safety and well-being of all children seriously. We will continue to investigate with the Columbus Police Department and comply with state laws and our regional policies to take appropriate and necessary steps.”
Andermatt's arraignment was Saturday, with his margin set at $750,000, WBNS said. He is expected to be in court on May 5.
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