Officer accused in underage affair

PITTSBORO, Ind. (WISH) - A Pittsboro police officer is facing serious felony charges for allegedly inappropriately touching a teenage girl, while in uniform.

Investigators said the police officer, 33-year-old Scott Gabbei, and a 14-year-old girl met at an Avon roller skating rink at the beginning of July. Gabbei was off duty, working security.

Pittsboro Police Chief Christi Patterson said, "It's a disappointment. I feel for the department. I feel for the community. It's going to be rough for both of us to go through this."

Gabbei's been with the Pittsboro Police Department for less than a year. He's now on paid suspension.

According to the probable cause affidavit, in the two weeks following the roller rink encounter, Gabbei talked to the girl several times in person and sent her text messages.

Authorities said Gabbei texted the girl one night asking her to sneak out of her parents’ house and meet him at the Pittsboro city park. The probable cause affidavit said he took her to the back of a park trail, hugged her, and kissed her.

Police learned of the incident after the girl told her youth pastor.

The girl told police Gabbei thought he was competing for her with a 13-year-old boy. Court documents also show Gabbei knew her age because they talked about her starting the eighth grade this year.

According to the probable cause, Gabbei eventually admitted to the sexual misconduct, saying during the kiss he did feel her tongue.

The chief doesn't want Gabbei's actions to speak for the entire department.

"We're still here for the community and I hope they can see the other work that we do," Chief Patterson said.

Gabbei posted his $25,000 bond right after he turned himself in Monday afternoon. He scheduled to appear in court Thursday. Chief Patterson said he'll remain suspended from duty until the town council determines the next step at a hearing on August 25.