Fitness trainer faces charges of sexual misconduct

A local fitness trainer was arrested Friday after being accused of sexual misconduct.

The trainer, 34-year-old Bart Smith, has been charged with third-degree sexual misconduct.

He was taken to the Stoddard County Jail, where he faces a $7,500 cash-only bond.

According to a probable-cause affidavit filed by Dexter police Det. Cory Mills, an 18-year-old woman came to the police station Thursday to report the incident.

She said that at 8:30 a.m. Thursday she arrived at The Fitness Connection on Locust Street and was greeted by Smith.

Smith reportedly stated he would like to show her some workouts, and she agreed. She said Smith then escorted her into a back room in the northeast section of the business.

At first a few people were in the room, but they left shortly after, according to the report.

Smith then allegedly asked her a question of sexual nature and she told him she "did not want to talk about things like that." He then went on to ask if she was in a relationship.

She stated at that point she was "very disgusted and uncomfortable" with his comments.

The victim then began exercising when she noticed Smith's pants "were around his ankles" and he was performing a sexual act. She told him to stop, grabbed her items and left the business.

He reportedly asked the victim if she was going to shower first and she replied no.

Authorities say Smith then sent the victim text messages between 9:26 and 9:52 a.m. The messages were entered into evidence.

The victim stated her father called Smith on his cellphone and questioned him about the incident and said Smith admitted what transpired and apologized.

Smith will appear for arraignment Thursday before Judge Joe Z. Satterfield.