BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (AP) — Indiana State Police trooper has been fired after admitting to continuing a relationship with a 17-year-old girl.

A state police document says Trooper Ryan Starnes was accused by the teenager’s parents of maintaining a relationship with the girl between July and October 2018.

The document from State Police Superintendent Doug Carter says Starnes committed conduct unbecoming of an officer when “he continued a relationship with a female” after learning she was 17.

Capt. Dave Bursten says state police were able to substantiate the allegation.

Starnes’ dismissal was effective Feb. 28, and he has until March 15 to file an appeal.