OKC Police Officer Accused Of Molestation Speaks Out To Clear Name

Dana Hertneky, News 9

MIDWEST CITY, Oklahoma – An Oklahoma City police officer accused of molesting his adopted son is desperate to clear his name. The alleged victim admitted the story was a lie but police have not dropped the investigation.

Sgt. Maurice Martinez said because of the incident, he can no longer stay in his home. He also adamantly denies the charges and said he's fighting for his freedom.

"It pretty much ended the life I had to deal with this," said Sgt. Martinez. "Amazed at how someone can throw you in jail on third hand information, with no investigation and basically you get locked up on $80,000 bond on charges like that.

Martinez was a police officer for more than 18 years and spent more than a decade as a foster and adoptive parent. Martinez said his adopted son was upset and got mad, but did not specify why. However, he's glad the teen recanted his story, saying the 16-year-old did the right thing. The videotaped confession that the accusations were a lie was handed over to police.

"They jumped to conclusions. They threw me in jail. They believe what they want to believe," said Martinez.

Martinez alleges investigators have botched this investigation at every point. He said he's never seen anything like it, but was most surprised by how he's been treated.

"This is not a third world country. This is the United States. We need to do things correctly here," he said.

A police spokesperson said Sgt. Martinez has a right to his opinion but the investigation is still ongoing.

Despite everything, the allegations have not changed his desire to help children in need. He said if he's cleared of the charges, he will continue being a foster parent. However, he is worried how it will impact others wanting to be foster parents.

"It's unfortunate because of this situation because you have foster parents, or people wanting to be foster parents, and they see this and then you have one allegation and that can turn somebody's life upside down," said the police sergeant.

Martinez added he is considering a lawsuit against the city.

More:

• Alleged Victim Recants Story Accusing OKC Police Officer Of Sex Acts
• Victim's Family Says Joke Led To Untrue Accusations Against OKC Police Officer