Former Warren Police Officer Sued for $1 Million Over Sex Crimes

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A victim of a former Warren, Ohio police officer convicted of sex crimes has filed a $1 million federal lawsuit against the city and its police chief. The lawsuit alleges that ex-officer Michael Edwards Jr. raped, sexually battered, and extorted multiple vulnerable women, including the plaintiff, while on duty and in uniform between 2019 and 2024. The complaint accuses the city and police chief of establishing a 'custom' of disregarding Edwards' actions by not investigating citizen complaints, not properly training officers, and turning a blind eye to his misconduct.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of police misconduct and abuse of power, as well as the need for better oversight and accountability within law enforcement agencies. The lawsuit also raises questions about the city's role in enabling Edwards' criminal behavior and failing to protect vulnerable members of the community.

The details

According to the complaint, Edwards targeted sex workers, drug addicts, and other vulnerable women, threatening to arrest them or leak sensitive information if they did not submit to his sexual advances. The lawsuit alleges that Edwards sexually assaulted the plaintiff, who was homeless at the time, on multiple occasions in 2019 and 2020 while he was on duty and in uniform. The complaint states that Edwards' behavior continued for at least two years.

• In late 2019, Edwards sexually assaulted the plaintiff in a 'flop house' residence while on duty.
• Between late 2019 and February 2020, Edwards sexually assaulted the plaintiff two more times while on duty.
• In September 2024, Edwards was convicted on charges including rape, sexual battery, and theft in office.
• Edwards is currently incarcerated at Chillicothe Correctional Institution.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on a future date whether to allow the $1 million lawsuit to proceed.