A former Freeborn County detention center deputy who allegedly propositioned an inmate in February pleaded not guilty Thursday in Freeborn County District Court.

Chad Stephen Rochleau, 44, of Albert Lea is charged with gross misdemeanor misconduct by a public officer.

Court documents state Rochleau was charged after the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office was asked to assist with a conflict investigation Feb. 13 in Freeborn County involving a Freeborn County detention deputy and a female inmate in the Freeborn County jail.

An investigation reportedly revealed that while on duty Feb. 5, Rochleau propositioned a known adult female inmate to remove her clothing in front of her cell in exchange for her being allowed to keep reading materials in her cell that she was not allowed to have.

Rochleau has since been terminated from his position.

A jury trial is scheduled for Aug. 15, if the case has not been settled by then.

Misconduct by a public officer carries a maximum sentence of one year imprisonment and a $3,000 fine.