SMITH COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) – A Reservoir police officer was arrested in Smith County for statutory rape, according to investigators.

Smith County Sheriff Joel Houston said the sheriff’s office received a complaint from a concerned parent that a teenager had an inappropriate relationship with an adult male.

During the investigation, multiple search warrants were conducted on numerous electronic devices. The sheriff said Rodney Jernigan, who is an officer with the Reservoir Police Department, was arrested and charged with statutory rape. He’s being held in the Smith County Jail until his initial appearance.

“We will continue to protect the safety of our children and citizens regardless of who the perpetrators may be,” said Houston.

Reservoir Police Chief Carlos DiPuma said Jernigan was placed on administrative leave without pay pending the outcome of the investigation in Smith County.