Burnsville care attendant charged in sexual assault on teen

Last update: November 5, 2009 - 10:48 PM

A Burnsville man who used to be a girl's personal care attendant was charged Thursday with sexually assaulting her.

Earl Christopher Choate, 36, is charged in Hennepin County District Court with two felony counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct. He was being held at the county jail in lieu of $100,000 bail and is set to appear in court on Nov. 12.

In 2005 and 2006, Choate and the girl lived in the same apartment complex in Bloomington, according to the criminal complaint. The girl, who was 12 and 13 at the time, had a diagnosis of several conditions that made her eligible for an attendant. Choate, a family friend, was hired to care for her Mondays through Fridays and some Saturdays, the girl, who is now 16, told authorities.

Choate and the girl had sex several times a week, some of which was recorded on video, according to the criminal complaint. The sexual activity took place in her apartment and several hotels, the complaint said, adding that Choate also had sent the girl sexually suggestive notes and cards.

Videotapes, as well as notes and cards from the girl, were found in a search of Choate's current home.

VINCE TUSS