Former ROTC Coordinator Accused of Sex Crimes Against Underage Students Changes Plea – WHIO TV 7 and WHIO Radio

FAIRBORN — He was accused of repeatedly sexually abusing one of his underage high school students.

On Friday he pleaded guilty to dozens of charges.

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Eriks Fricsons was arrested by Fairborn police in 2022 and ultimately resigned from his position as director of the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC).

He initially pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.

On Friday, prosecutors said he finally admitted his guilt.

>> PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Court orders competency evaluation of former Fairborn ROTC coordinator convicted of sex and drug crimes

Greene County Prosecutor David Hayes said the case got under his skin because Fricsons abused his position of authority to commit his crimes.

“This is absolutely unacceptable behavior,” Hayes said.

Fairborn police began their investigation in 2022 after being alerted to possible abuse.

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Police collected enough evidence to execute a search warrant at his home.

Court records show police found three safes that contained a digital storage device containing photos and videos of encounters with the victim, marijuana and various sex toys and outfits. In addition, 50 firearms and ammunition were seized. There were two “bunkers” under the Fricsons’ house.

He was arrested and initially charged with 40 counts of sexual assault and 40 counts of obscenity against a minor.

A judge said if he were to impose the maximum sentences for the charges to which Fricsons pleaded guilty he could face up to 322 years in prison.

As part of the agreement reached, prosecutors will ask the judge to impose a prison sentence of at least 20 years.

He will be sentenced in December.

We will continue to follow this story.

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