WHEELING, W.Va. -- A former Wheeling police officer has been acquitted of another sexual abuse charge.

Media outlets say Ohio County Circuit Court Judge Arthur Recht ruled Monday that prosecutors hadn't prove the charge against Matthew Kotson beyond a reasonable doubt.

Last month, a jury couldn't reach a verdict on the charge and a mistrial was declared. Jurors acquitted Kotson of a second sexual abuse count.

Kotson was indicted in January on sexual abuse, sexual assault and burglary charges. Authorities say four women accused him of misconduct.

Four trials originally were scheduled. The first trial was canceled in June after special prosecutor David Cross told the judge that witnesses failed to cooperate.

Recht scheduled the two remaining trials for March 25, 2013, and April 1, 2013.