An Ohio doctor indicted on charges of soliciting sex from a 16-year-old girl killed himself rather than face trial, bringing an abrupt end to a case that had been pending in Hamilton County court.
Background
Francis J. Kearse III, 43, had been listed as an emergency medicine provider with Baptist Health before his name was removed from the facility. According to a US News & World Report directory, Kearse also held emergency medicine privileges at Deaconess Memorial Medical Center in Indiana.
The case against Kearse will now be dismissed following his death, according to WXIX. He had been due in court for an arraignment on Tuesday morning.
The Charges
In Hamilton County, Kearse was charged with compelling prostitution, compelling prostitution involving a minor, trafficking in persons, and importuning. The indictment alleges he began communicating with the 16-year-old victim via Snapchat last year.
According to the charging documents, Kearse gave the girl gift cards before telling her he needed "some kinda payback." The two met on October 19, and he gave her two vape pens and $15 in exchange for sex.
Kearse was arrested on March 11. A judge released him on his own recognizance following his arrest.
Kearse was also facing charges in Butler County, and those charges will also be dismissed following his death.
Key Takeaways
- Kearse, 43, was an emergency medicine physician formerly employed by Baptist Health
- He faced charges of compelling prostitution, compelling prostitution involving a minor, trafficking in persons, and importuning
- He allegedly communicated with the 16-year-old victim via Snapchat and gave her gift cards before demanding sexual favors
- He was arrested on March 11 and released on his own recognizance
- He shot himself to death on Friday, one day before his scheduled arraignment
What's Next
The Hamilton County case against Kearse will be dismissed. Judge Christopher McDowell addressed the court on Tuesday, stating that Kearse "escaped justice the hard way." The Butler County charges will also be dismissed. His medical license remained active after his arrest, though he was removed from his position at Baptist Health.