SALISBURY — A Florida pilot was charged with sexual battery after an employee at the Rowan County airport reported he inappropriately touched the employee, Rowan County officials said.

William Grant Kluttz Jr., 70, of the 800 block of Eel Avenue, New Smyrna Beach, was charged with the misdemeanor offense on Monday after he turned himself in to authorities.

The incident occurred July 1 when the pilot and employee talked about his plane. Officials say the pilot then touched the employee’s backside and kissed the victim on the neck. The employee reported it to a supervisor who contacted law enforcement, said Capt. John Sifford.

The employee said the behavior was unsolicited and there was no prior relationship between the two.

Kluttz was given a written promise to appear in court. His first appearance in court will be July 27.

— Shavonne Walker