Minnesota State Trooper Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Teen

BURNSVILLE, MN — A Minnesota State Patrol trooper is facing felony charges for allegedly performing multiple sex acts on a 14-year-old girl, according to reports. Shawn Barta, 36, of Burnsville, is charged in Dakota County court with two felony counts of criminal sexual conduct.

According to the criminal complaint filed, the allegations were first brought to Burnsville police on July 7 when they received a report from the victim's father, KARE-TV reported. The 14-year-old — who is cognitively delayed and functions at the ability of a sixth grader, according to police — said Barta would take her into a locked closet, undress her and touch her “down there.”

The victim also told investigators that Barta first began touching her and performing sexual acts in April 2018. However, when interviewed by detectives, Barta denied any sexual contact with the victim.

Col. Matt Langer, chief of the Minnesota State Patrol, released a statement on Wednesday, the Pioneer Press reported. “The alleged conduct outlined in this complaint is extremely disturbing and completely inconsistent with the core values of the Minnesota State Patrol,” Langer said. “Mr. Barta has been placed on investigative leave pending the outcome of the criminal process and an internal affairs investigation.”