By Jim Hannah
The Cincinnati Enquirer

NEWPORT - A former Newport police captain indicted on a sexual assault charge spoke out about the criminal charge against him Friday.

Through his attorney, Cyril Sykes said he "adamantly and unequivocally" denied the charges that he had inappropriate sexual contact with a female officer.

Sykes' attorney, Robert Lotz of Covington, said his client had retired from the force after he became aware of the investigation so that he could devote his energy and financial resources to his defense. Lotz said Sykes also wanted to reduce any possible adverse effect on how the department functioned.

First-degree sexual abuse is a Class D felony punishable by up to five years in prison. The case is being prosecuted by the Kentucky State Attorney General's Office.

Sykes was the Newport police patrol commander when he was suspended after the completion of an internal investigation in October. He stepped down as the SWAT team commander earlier this year. He had been a Newport police officer for 17 years.

"Capt. Sykes appreciates all of the support he has been given by his family and friends," Lotz wrote. "He is confident that he will be found not guilty of these charges, once the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth is presented to a jury in an open court trial."

E-mail jhannah@enquirer.com