Another new trial date for a South Bend police officer charged with child enticement

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) – A South Bend police officer accused of having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl has received another new trial date.

Rico Butler is charged with two counts of child enticement. He was arrested in early March after allegations about the relationship came to light.

According to court documents, the girl was a student at a school in Mishawaka where Butler worked as a part-time school resource officer and basketball coach.

This is the third time Butler’s jury trial has been postponed, which prosecutors say is not uncommon. This change was requested by the District Attorney’s Office due to a scheduling conflict.

The new trial date is now set for January 21, 2025.

WNDU was told earlier this year that Butler was placed on unpaid leave from the South Bend Police Department.

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