WHITEHALL, Ohio — A Whitehall city councilmember was sworn in for a new term hours after being released from jail on sex crime charges involving minors, sparking community outrage and calls for his resignation at a rally held Wednesday night at city hall.

Gerald Dixon was arrested following allegations of sexual misconduct with minors dating back to 1996. He was released from jail on his own recognizance on Tuesday and sworn in to serve another term on council less than 24 hours later.

The quick succession of events drew sharp criticism from community members.

"For it to be just brushed under the rug less than 24 hours later and being sworn into a council seat, it's disheartening that Whitehall City Council would take that stance," said Michael Young, lead pastor at City of Grace Chu

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