A Prince William Police Officer was arrested by his own department, and the 28-year-old is being held without bond after allegedly committing crimes against the same woman twice.
According to Prince William Police Department the accused and victim knew each other but authorities didn’t elaborate on how.
PWPD reported that following an investigation, investigators determined, on June 4, while on duty, James Clinton, of Woodbridge, was in a secured area of Potomac Mills talking to the female victim, who worked at the mall.
Clinton allegedly “forcibly handcuffed” her. “At no time during the interaction was the victim being detained or otherwise arrested for a criminal violation,” PWPD confirmed.
Shortly afterward, Clinton released the woman from the handcuffs and they went separate ways, said PWPD.
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A second incident allegedly occurred on September 22 at Turley Park in Dale City, where PWPD said the two had agreed to meet. Clinton was also on duty on this occasion.
A verbal altercation ensued while the two parties were outside of their vehicles, PWPD reported. Clinton allegedly held the woman against her will, made repeated threats toward her, and repeatedly grabbed her around the neck, PWPD said. He also touched her inappropriately, the department added.
The following day, the woman reported both incidents to police, and PWPD said that is the day the investigation of Clinton began. Both administrative and criminal investigations were launched by the Police Department’s Office of Professional Standards and Criminal Investigations Division, said PWPD.
Clinton, who had more than 6 years of service, was arrested on September 26 and relieved of his police authority, PWPD confirmed.
He is currently facing 2 counts of abduction, sexual battery, and assault & battery.
“This type of behavior is reprehensible and does not represent the values and professionalism of the members of this agency,” said Chief Peter Newsham, Prince William County Police Department. “I commend our Criminal Investigations Division for acting quickly and effectively in bringing charges to ensure that he is held accountable.”
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