US: Another Missouri man charged with HIV exposure

A reader alerted me to this report from KSDK news, about an HIV-positive man from St Charles, Missouri, a suburb of St. Louis, who is charged with HIV exposure.

The law in this state is clear, according to St. Charles County Prosecutor Jack Banas:

"Once they get that virus, they have to let other people know who they have some type of relationship with," Banas said.

The report includes a photograph of the man, apparently to help the police trawl for more 'victims'.

St. Charles Man Accused Of Exposing Men & Women To HIV

Created: 2/12/2008 3:59:18 PM

Last updated: 2/12/2008 10:44:45 PM
By Jasmine Huda

A St. Charles man is accused of exposing a woman to the virus that causes AIDS.

Prosecutors said Michael Brian Bergman, 43, had unprotected sex with the woman without telling her he had tested positive for HIV. Authorities said Bergman may have exposed at least five men and women to HIV over the past several weeks.

The sheriff's department is looking for other potential victims.

St. Charles County Prosecutor Jack Banas said state law spells out what is required of anyone who carries HIV.

"Once they get that virus, they have to let other people know who they have some type of relationship with," Banas said.

Bergman and the woman met on the internet and began a relationship in December. He told deputies he cannot control his sexual compulsive behavior.

The woman, who did not want her name disclosed, said she confronted Bergman shortly after reading the emails. She said she was stunned at his response.

"He said, 'Oh, you caught me.' Just with no expression. No remorse, nothing," she said.

Bergman was charged Monday with recklessly risking another person with HIV infection and is jailed on $250,000 bond. If the woman is infected, Bergman could face other charges carrying a possible life sentence.

The woman said she is awaiting results of an HIV test.