Nationwide — Pierce Cotton, a 32-year-old African American police officer from Pensacola, Florida, has been arrested for allegedly having intercourse with out informing his associate that he’s HIV-positive. He now faces a third-degree felony cost beneath state legislation for failing to reveal his standing.
Cotton is accused of violating Florida Statute 384.24(2), which makes it unlawful for anybody with HIV to have interaction in sexual exercise with out telling their associate and acquiring consent. The legislation goals to forestall the intentional unfold of the virus.
Based on Fox 10 TV, the Pensacola Police Division confirmed that Cotton is on administrative go away whereas an inner affairs investigation is ongoing. The division has not shared extra particulars concerning the incident.
Court docket and jail data present Cotton posted a $10,000 bond Friday afternoon and was launched. His mugshot is exempt from public data beneath Florida legislation.
Cotton has a historical past of recognition for heroism. In February 2023, the division highlighted on Fb that he obtained a Life Saving award for rescuing a person from a lodge pool drowning.
The investigation and authorized proceedings will decide whether or not the fees towards Cotton transfer ahead.
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