Senate candidate responds to sex charge

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - A New Lebanon man running for the U.S. Senate seat responded to allegations that he had an inappropriate relationship with a minor.

2 News spoke to Eric Deaton inside the offices of Rion and Rion, with his attorney, Jon Paul Rion by his side.

Deaton maintained that he did nothing wrong, despite charges filed by a Montgomery County grand jury.

Despite the nature of the charges, Deaton said he planned to stay in the race for the senate seat, being vacated by Senator George Voinovich.

Deaton was indicted on one count of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, on Monday.

Perry Township police said Deaton had an inappropriate relationship with a 15 year old girl between March 2006 and 2007.

Police believed he met the victim while serving as an elder at his church. Police said he would tutored her at times, and invited the teen to his home and paid her to do odd jobs.

Police said they had hotel receipts and video to prove their case.

But Deaton's attorney, Jon Paul Rion questioned the timing of indictment. It comes close to election time. Rion also said the hotel surveillance video and receipts would help prove that Deaton was innocent.

Rion said Deaton had passed a 4-hour long polygraph test.

Deaton was a member of the Constitution party. In a press conference on Tuesday morning, he said the accusations against him were lies. Deaton said he looked forward to defending himself in court. He also said he held the constitution dear to his heart, and was glad he had the rights to a due process.

If found guilty Deaton could face five years in prison, and a fine of $10,000. He is scheduled to appear in court on September 14th.