SMITH COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) – Smith County Sheriff Joel Houston provided more information about the arrest of a former Reservoir police officer, who has been charged with statutory rape.

Houston said it was about 48 hours from the time the victim’s father called the sheriff’s office until they arrested Rodney Jernigan. The sheriff said Jernigan lives in Raleigh and was arrested at a home near his residence. He was not with the victim at the time of his arrest.

“We received a complaint from a parent that was concerned about her, his 13 year old daughter, possibly being inappropriate relationship with an adult male, who we later learned was 26 years of age,” said Houston.

The parent wanted law enforcement to act right away.

“He was livid. I mean, as any father or parent would, they wanted something to happen immediately. And unfortunately, you know, we have to get all of our evidence in a row and make sure we have a solid case,” the sheriff said.

According to Houston, multiple search warrants were done on numerous electronic devices.

“We recovered several cell phones and a laptop computer. The search warrant, we were able  more electronic devices in which we’ll have to have the search warrants for those and collect evidence off of those,” he said.

If convicted, Jernigan could face between 10 and 30 years in prison. He made his initial appearance in court on Thursday, July 18 and received a $50,000 bond. Jernigan has since bonded out.

Once the sheriff’s office completes their investigation, they will turn the case over to the district attorney. Jernigan is expected to stand before a grand jury in late October.

Reservoir Police Chief Carlos DiPuma said Jernigan was placed on administrative leave without pay. He said Jernigan resigned on Wednesday, July 17.