BOISE, Idaho — A jury acquitted former Caldwell police Sgt. Ryan Bendawald of all charges Thursday, including allegations he used his authority to sexually abuse women.

Jurors found Bendawald not guilty of violating the civil rights of at least seven women and abusing his position as a law enforcement officer between 2017 and 2021.

Prosecutors accused Bendawald of using his position to sexually abuse several women and trading leniency for sexual favors.

During closing arguments Thursday, prosecutors outlined each charge against Bendawald and explained why they believed the evidence showed he violated victims' constitutional rights.

"Why do you think he picked these women? Because he thought they would not be believed," prosecutors said during closing arguments. "The defendant didn't

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