Powhatan man charged with sexual battery of a child was once a Chesterfield police officer

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A man arrested in Powhatan County and charged with aggravated sexual battery of a child under the age of 13 was once a police officer in Chesterfield County.

According to the Powhatan County Sheriff’s Office, 50-year-old Joseph Edward Parker, of Powhatan, has been arrested on four counts of aggravated sexual battery of a child under the age of 13 and two counts of taking indecent liberties with a child by a person in a custodial or supervisory role.

The Chesterfield County Police Department confirmed to 8News that Parker was employed in July 1998 before his employment was "terminated" in February 2003. The department has not shared why he was terminated.

Powhatan officials said Parker is the owner and operator of Fast Feet Sports Academy located at 2140 Carter Gallier Boulevard. According to the business's website, it's a before- and after-school multi-sport program for kids.

"Fast Feet Sports Academy gives children an opportunity to be exposed to and get involved with multiple sports," the website said.

Parker has been held without bond and his arraignment will take place later today at Powhatan General District Court at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 21.

Those with information regarding this ongoing investigation, as well as about Fast Feet Sports Academy, are asked to contact the Powhatan County Sheriff’s Office at 804-598-5656.