If you or someone you know needs resources or support related to sexual violence, contact the Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault’s 24/7 hotline at 800-871-7741.
The Knox County district attorney is “shocked” by Thomaston’s decision to rehire its EMS chief despite his plea in a sexual assault case.
But Natasha Irving, the midcoast prosecutor, said in a Friday statement that the decision was “regrettably” not surprising, according to the Midcoast Villager.
“Anthony Leo plead guilty to a felony sex crime against a child. Deep roots and respect in the community are all too common ways predators gain access to children, maintain victim silence, and skirt accountability for unimaginable acts,” Irving said.
Leo was charged in September 2023 with gross sexual assault, unlawful sexual contact and sexual abuse of a minor for offenses against a 14-year-old girl that allegedly happened in 2003.
Leo entered an Alford plea in Knox County court on a single count of sexual abuse of a minor, meaning he didn’t admit to a crime but admitted that the court had enough evidence to convict him if the case went to trial, according to the Midcoast Villager. As part of the plea deal, the charges of gross sexual assault and unlawful sexual contact were dropped.
Leo was granted a two-year deferred disposition following the plea deal, and is required to attend counseling. He is also barred from spending time with women under age 18, unless under supervision, and must complete a restorative justice program with the victim, according to the Villager.
If he adheres to those conditions, the sexual abuse of a minor charge will be dismissed after two years, and he will be convicted of simple assault and imposed a $300 fine. If Leo violates those terms, he will be sentenced on the sexual abuse of a minor charge and risks jail time.
During a Nov. 1 meeting, the Thomaston Select Board voted to reinstate Leo as both the town’s fire and EMS chiefs.
Select Board Chair Chris Rector told the Villager that Thomaston has “zero tolerance” for sexual assault. In a Thursday letter to the town announcing Leo’s reinstatement, Thomaston referred to the “alleged case” against Leo, saying it has “full confidence” in his ability to lead the fire and EMS departments.
But in her Friday statement, Irving noted that Leo wouldn’t be able to pass a background check to work with Knox County, according to the Villager.
BDN writer Leela Stockley contributed to this report.
