Robert Bowen

WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) – The former chief of the Riverside Fire Department in Rothschild and Schofield has pleaded not guilty to child enticement and misdemeanor sexual assault.

Robert Bowen appeared in a Marathon County courtroom Monday, where a judge bound him over for trial, saying there was enough evidence for the case to proceed.

The 53-year-old man is accused of making inappropriate contact with a child who was under 18. Court documents say the contact took place between June 2023 and spring 2024.

The charges were filed in late May. Shortly thereafter, Bowen was placed on paid administrative leave. He remained there until early August, when he left the department for “personal and professional reasons,” according to a statement from the village of Rothschild.

Officials stressed that the alleged actions did not occur while he was on duty for the department or on Village property. Since his departure, the department has supported the remaining captains with the help of Rothschild administrator Ryan VanDeWalle.

RELATED: The Riverside Fire District Chief has resigned

The charges against him carry a maximum sentence of 16.5 years in prison. He remains free on a $15,000 cash bond. Further court action is scheduled for December 17.