An aquatics director for the Fairfax County Park Authority was arrested last week after police say he had sexual contact with a juvenile recreation center employee.
Officers were called to the Audrey Moore Rec Center (8100 Braddock Road) at Wakefield Park in Annandale at 10:49 a.m. on June 8 for a report of a sexual offense, the Fairfax County Police Department said in a press release.
“The complainant reported that a juvenile employee disclosed having inappropriate contact with the Aquatics Director,” the FCPD said.
According to the FCPD, detectives with its Sex Crimes Unit confirmed that Nicholas Ambrose, a 28-year-old man from Alexandria, had made “unlawful contact with the juvenile on one occasion.”
Ambrose was arrested on June 11 and charged with indecent liberties by a custodian, a felony that carries a potential punishment of one to five years in prison, or a jail sentence of up to 12 months combined with a fine of up to $2,500, for a first offense.
The Fairfax County Park Authority says it terminated Ambrose from his job as soon as it learned about the allegations. He had worked for the park authority since 2020, a tenure that included stints at other facilities.
The park authority doesn’t have records of incidents being reported at the other facilities, according to a spokesperson.
The FCPA’s full statement is below:
Fairfax County Park Authority is committed to the safety and well-being of all employees – especially our younger team members. The trust of our staff is paramount, and full compliance to our code of conduct is mandatory to ensure a safe and respectful work environment. Upon learning of these allegations, we took immediate steps to permanently conclude the individual’s employment with the Park Authority. We have been in full cooperation with the authorities in the investigation and resolution of this matter. Out of respect for the privacy of those involved, especially the minor, we will not be releasing further details at this time. We remain fully focused on supporting those affected and reinforcing protective measures in place to maintain safety in our facilities and employee community.
After getting charged, Ambrose was released from custody pending his court hearings, the police said. Court dates weren’t available online, as of last night (Sunday).
“Victim specialists from our Major Crimes Bureau’s Victim Services Division have been assigned to ensure the victim is receiving appropriate resources and assistance,” the FCPD said.
