A man who was supposed to enforce the law is now accused of breaking it. James Combs, 37, works for the Independence Police Department.
Monday, Combs was formally charged with the statutory rape of a 14-year-old girl over allegations of sexual abuse.
The victim's family was in full force, hoping to show their support during this trying time.
Their names will not be shared to respect the privacy of the victim, but they were devastated when they saw Combs.
"It's disgusting, and I hope that everybody stands up against anything like this," said one family member.
"No matter what they do for a living a pedophile is a pedophile," said the victim's grandma.
An aunt shared this, "He's above the law. He knew the law. He still broke the law. He should be charged double because he's a police officer."
Combs, a 14-year veteran of the Independence police force, spent two years prior as a Sugar Creek officer.
Officers said the victim told a friend the abuse happened in Combs' house. She said when he was upset, he would take it out on her by coming into her room and touching her.
Investigators said Combs' abuse began in December 2014 and lasted until June 2016.
"There are no words to describe. Imagine if it were your child? We want justice for all children. Just because you wear a blue uniform, you are human. He should be held accountable, higher, because we teach our children to trust police officers," explained the girl's grandma.
Since allegations of sexual misconduct were filed on September 28, Combs has not performed any police duties.
Judge Jack Grate entered a not guilty plea for Combs. His next court date is November 21 at 9 a.m.
The defendant and his attorney, John Patrick O'Connor, had no comment.
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Belinda Post can be reached at belinda.post@kshb.com.
