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ST. GEORGE — A former recruiter for the Utah Army National Guard was charged Wednesday with sexually assaulting a college student he recruited more than a decade ago who was staying at his home.
Thomas William Tobin III, 49, is charged in 5th District Court with two counts of rape, a first-degree felony.
In 2011, prosecutors say Tobin "was a recruiter for the Utah Army National Guard" and recruited a woman who was a student at Dixie State College.
"(He) allowed (the woman) to move into his home and work as a nanny for his children," according to charging documents.
Prosecutors say the woman lived in the home for about two months. During that time, the woman was sexually assaulted twice, the charges state.
"When (Tobin) was interviewed by law enforcement in Salt Lake City, (he) denied any physical contact with (her). However, (Tobin) subsequently admitted to having a sexual relationship with (the woman). (Tobin) claimed (the) relationship was consensual, but also admitted that he held a position of authority over (the woman)," according to the charges.
Lt. Col. Chris Kroeber, spokesman for the Utah National Guard, told KSL.com Wednesday that Tobin was "separated from service" last year and is no longer a Guard member. While Kroeber said he was not authorized to talk about Tobin's case specifically, he said any time such allegations are made, they are taken very seriously.
"The minute that comes across a commander's desk there is an investigation," he said. "Anything in violation of our values is dealt with immediately."
It was not known Wednesday when police were first notified of the allegations.
