Former Deputy Faces Federal Sexual Abuse Charges | Charleston News

Charleston West Virginia News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 3, 2026 · 1m

Former Kanawha County deputy Cass Close now faces federal charges for aggravated sexual abuse and depriving an inmate of rights while acting under color of law — a move that dropped prior state charges. The case began after a July 2025 complaint alleging he forced non-consensual acts and took photos at the judicial annex. Court docs reveal he confessed during a State Police interview, admitting to inappropriate comments and coercion. This federal escalation underscores the severity of the allegations as proceedings shift to the Southern District of West Virginia. Listen in comfort:Get a…