ZACHARY — A former Zachary firefighter pleaded guilty to two charges and was sentenced on Thursday, just over a year after he was initially charged.
Jonathan Knight, who resigned from his position last year after his arrest, pleaded guilty to indecent behavior with a juvenile and molestation of a juvenile, according to East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore. The DA dismissed the charge of computer-aided solicitation of a juvenile.
On the first charge, Knight was sentenced to seven years at the Department of Corrections, all suspended, and on the second charge, 10 years at the Department of Corrections, also all suspended. The sentences run consecutive.
In addition, Knight was sentenced to five years of probation, must register as a sex offender, and undergo sex offender evaluation. The victim has a permanent protective order against Knight, Moore added.
Knight is responsible for $3,000 in fines, along with court costs, and must perform 100 hours of community service.
Original Story April 9, 2025
A Zachary firefighter is among two people facing charges of sexual misconduct involving a juvenile, according to a news release from the Zachary Police Department.
Jonathan Knight, 40, and Tara Bizette, 46, were arrested on charges of contributing to the delinquency of juveniles and molestation of a juvenile.
The Zachary Police Department said its investigation included executing search warrants, reviewing evidence, and interviewing the suspects.
In 2014, Knight received the fire lifesaver award from the Zachary Fire Department after he and two other firefighters entered a burning trailer and discovered an unresponsive man suffering from smoke inhalation.
Knight, along with two firefighters, were credited with saving the man’s life.
Knight has been placed on paid administrative leave, which is standard procedure, as the investigation unfolds.
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