New York state trooper accused of groping faces more charges

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (AP) - A New York state trooper suspended after being charged with forcible touching is now facing additional charges.

Trooper Jason Sears, 39, has been charged with two additional counts of forcible touching stemming from an incident that occurred in 2017, State Police said.

Sears pleaded not guilty in November after being charged for the first time with forcible touching. He is accused of groping a receptionist at a Rochester-area garage that works on state police vehicles.

WHEC-TV reported that Sears was off duty when he went to the garage to pick up his personal vehicle when the alleged incidents occurred.

Sears remains suspended without pay as the investigation continues.

He is due back in Rochester City Court on Jan. 22 to answer to all the charges.

A message seeking comment from his lawyer wasn't returned.