Rochester Man Admits to Sexual Relationship With Vulnerable Adult He was Caring For

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- A former Rochester care provider has admitted to sexually exploiting a vulnerable adult in his care. 

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47-year-old David Meilander was charged with third-degree criminal sexual conduct. Rochester Police launched an investigation last November after receiving a report of inappropriate sexual contact between Meilander and the woman. 

Meilander entered a plea agreement during a hearing in Olmsted County Court on Thursday. The agreement calls for him to admit to the third-degree criminal sexual conduct charge and in exchange the prosecution will ask for a downward sentencing departure. 

The criminal complaint says the victim told investigators that Meilander initiated the unlawful relationship in November 2021 and it continued through last October. She indicated the sexual contact between them occurred at her apartment and Meilander's residence. 

The court document says Meilander was interviewed by investigators and denied any sexual relationship with the woman and stated the victim had never been at his home. A neighbor disputed that and told police he had seen the victim visiting Meilander's house. The complaint says Meilander then called investigators and admitted to the sexual relationship. 

The agreement does not list a suggested sentence. Meilander is scheduled to be sentenced for the third-degree criminal sexual conduct charge in October.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, resources are available for help. Visit the RAINN website (Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network) or dial 800-656-HOPE (800-656-4673).

Correction: A previous version of this story stated the plea agreement was reached on Wednesday