Merced correctional officer arraigned on charges of sexual battery, assault

A Merced County sheriff’s correctional officer pleaded not guilty Thursday to sexual battery and assault charges.

Gregory M. Rich, a seven-year veteran with the Merced County Sheriff’s Department, entered his plea before Judge Mark V. Bacciarini, the Merced Superior Court Clerk’s Office said.

Rich, 40, is charged with a felony count of assault by a public officer and three misdemeanor counts of sexual battery, according to the complaint filed by the Merced County District Attorney’s Office.

Rich has not been arrested, booked into jail or had a mugshot taken, law enforcement officials had previously said.

The allegations stem from incidents that are said to have occurred Jan. 27. Rich touched three women: a 21-year-old inmate at the John Latorraca Correctional Facility, a 29-year-old correctional officer and a 43-year-old Sheriff’s Department contract employee, deputies said.

Rich has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the criminal case.

Rich could receive a sentence of up to four years and six months in jail if convicted, and would have to register as a sex offender, according to the District Attorney’s Office.

Gerard Egan, the deputy district attorney prosecuting the case, on Thursday said it was too early to comment on the case.

Rich’s attorney, Ann M. Bennett, could not be reached for comment.

This story was originally published March 19, 2015 at 9:56 AM with the headline "Merced correctional officer arraigned on charges of sexual battery, assault."