COVINGTON — A recently retired Edgewood police officer has been charged with molesting a girl nearly seven years ago.

        Thomas H. Niehaus, 44, of Villa Hills was charged with first-degree sexual abuse on April 27.

        He had retired on April 17 from the Edgewood Police Department after nearly 22 years on the force.

        Mr. Niehaus pleaded not guilty, and is scheduled to stand trial on June 7 before Kenton Circuit Judge Douglas M. Stephens.

        A conviction on the felony charge would carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

        Edgewood Police Chief Steve Vollmar said Mr. Niehaus had been planning to retire for some time.

        Mr. Niehaus is accused of fondling a girl one time in 1994, according to Kentucky State Police at Dry Ridge.        

Teacher contacted authorities

        Police launched an investigation recently when a teacher heard of the girl's accusations and contacted authorities.

        The incident took place sometime in June, July or August 1994, according to court records.

        The charge Mr. Niehaus faces applies to sexual abuse involving children 14 years old or younger.

        Court records contain few details about the case, and prosecutors would not release additional information.

        Mr. Niehaus and his attorney, Michael Bouldin of Covington, could not be reached for comment.

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