A part-time DeKalb County deputy has been charged with sexual conduct with a minor.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said Joshua Dane Wells, 40, of Fort Payne has been charged with second degree sexual abuse.

Welden said Wells was not employed full-time by the Sheriff’s Office, and was in the Alabama Law Enforcement Police Academy, attempting to complete his certification to become an officer. He is no longer with the department.

According to court documents, Wells is accused of sexual contact with a 15-year-old last July. The investigation began after authorities received a complaint by a concerned parent, Welden said.

The 9th Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the FBI and Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the case.

Wells was booked into the Cherokee County Jail on Wednesday. He is being held without bond.

Welden said the past week has been hard on his office and the community.

“This event is a black eye to our office and also the entire law enforcement community,” he said. “Law enforcement officers are expected to be held to the highest standard and when mischief is alleged, it is not taken lightly.”

Weldon said the investigation is continuing and additional charges could be pending.

“This type of behavior cannot and will not be tolerated,” he said.