Prosecutors have added new rape charges to the case of a former Warren police officer, also calling him a "sexually violent predator" as six alleged victims have now come forward.

An indictment handed up Tuesday, which is the third levied against Michael Edwards Jr., adds five more rape counts as well as a "sexually violent predator" designation to charges that were already tagged with firearm specifications.

A sexually violent predator specification is filed against a person charged with a violent sex offense. Like a firearm specification added to crimes committed with a gun, it could mean more prison time for a person who is convicted.

Of the eight counts of rape with firearm specifications, all but one include the sexually violent predator specification.

Other charges with firearm specifications include five counts of gross sexual imposition, three counts of sexual battery, menacing by stalking, and attempted gross sexual imposition.

Edwards is also charged with two counts of extortion, theft in office, and dereliction of duty.

The new charges come as a result of work by Trumbull County Assistant Prosecutor Gabe Wildman who says six women have claimed incidents that took place as long ago as 2019 and as recently as this past January.

Michael Edward's wife, Taylor Edwards, resigned from her job with Warren Police last month after she was placed on administrative leave.

A Warren police officer, placed on administration leave on March 12, has resigned.

Taylor Edwards submitted her resignation on March 30.

Prosecutor Wildman says that during jail calls between her and her husband, the two had a discussion, which allegedly included comments stating that they hoped the victim died of an overdose or would get run over by a bus or an 18-wheeler.

Michael Edwards will answer the latest charges against him in Trumbull County Common Pleas Court on Wednesday afternoon.

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