Rupp seeks new special investigator

The Washington County Prosecutor’s Office will be looking for a new special investigator to investigate crimes involving child and sexual abuse.

Prosecuting Attorney John Rupp said Bev Gillam has resigned as the special investigator and is taking a position with Franklin County. Before that, Denise Brown was the special investigator. They each served two years.

Rupp said it is a difficult job and the burn-out rate is high. He said when you are “in the sewer” all the time, it is hard to feel normal.

He said both woman helped in the investigation of recent sex abuse cases involving children. One was Johnny Sittner who recently received two life sentences plus eight years and a fine. The other was Michael O’Connor who recently received six life terms. He said those are the types of cases where a special investigator’s expertise is helpful for successful prosecution.

The position is funded by a grant. He’s hoping he can find another dedicated advocate for children who will put in the extraordinary effort Gillam and Brown did.

Teresa Ressel is a reporter for the Daily Journal and can be reached at 573-431-2010, ext. 179 or at tressel@dailyjournalonline.com.