Now-fired Tampa police officer arrested for sexual battery

TAMPA (FOX 13) - A former Tampa Police officer turned himself in Thursday morning after he was charged with sexual battery during a traffic stop earlier this year.

Chief Eric Ward said Adam York was on his way into February 1 when he pulled a woman over for speeding.

The alleged victim, who is in her 20s, told investigators York inappropriately touched her during the traffic stop, which took place in the Dick's Sporting Goods parking lot at Westshore Mall. According to the police report, York's DNA was found on her clothing.

After those DNA results came back, York was fired in March.

"It was a shock to us, something that is hard to believe and we followed the investigation and the leads and this is where it landed us," Ward said during a morning news conference.

The state attorney's office charged the former officer this week. Ward said York had a 12-year career at TPD with a clean record.

"This investigation was a shock and disappointment to all of us at TPD," the chief said. "He's a police officer. Any time that happens and an officer is involved, it's very disappointing."

York, who told detectives he didn't do anything wrong, posted bond and has been released from jail. FOX 13 went to his house, but no one answered the door.

York's attorney, Rick Escobar, said by phone, "Adam York has an impeccable career without a blemish. Unfortunately there are allegations against him, ones that we will be able to defend and clear up very soon."

Escobar also said there is evidence that has not yet come out that will paint a different picture of what happened.

Prior to TPD, York worked as an officer for three years with Pinellas Park Police. FOX 13 obtained a copy of his annual employee reviews, where he was commended for having "no citizen complaints." In 2001, he was reprimanded for failing to attend training called "You can stop the harassment."

York began his police career with the South Bend, Indiana Police Department in 1997.