A former Etowah County Sheriff's Office deputy was arrested Monday for allegedly engaging in sexual conduct with a victim who was in his custody.

Anthony Ryan Bowen, 40, of Gadsden, allegedly committed the crime in the back seat of his patrol car Sunday morning, spokesperson Natalie Barton said.

Sheriff Todd Entrekin said Bowen has been immediately terminated and charged with one count of custodial sexual misconduct, which is a Class C Felony.

"A priority of this Sheriff's Office is to always protect and serve. That is the oath we take. This sheds a black eye on the Office and law enforcement," Entrekin said. "As soon as we were notified of the crime we took quick action to relieve him of his duties."

Bowen has been booked into the Etowah County Detention Center on a $100,000 bond. Barton said Bowen has been with the sheriff's for almost two years.

"I want to personally apologize to the victim that an employee acted in this manner," Entrekin added.

Although this is being investgated as an isolated incident, Entrekin said anyone who feels like they have any additional information can call the office at 256-546-2825.