A Virginia police officer was arrested for allegedly handcuffing the victim and touching her inappropriately

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – A member of the Prince William County Police Department has been arrested following an ongoing investigation into allegations of inappropriate conduct while on duty.

The investigation began on September 23 after the victim reported two separate incidents involving the defendant, Officer James Thomas Clinton.

According to police, the first incident occurred on June 4 in a secured area of ​​Potomac Mills where the victim was employed.

During that encounter, Clinton and the victim, who knew each other, chatted before he allegedly forcibly handcuffed her.

Police clarified that at no time during this interaction was the victim detained or arrested for a crime. After a short period of time, the department said she was released from the handcuffs and the two parted ways.

The second incident occurred on September 22 at Turley Park in Dale City, where the two had previously arranged to meet. During that encounter, Clinton allegedly held the victim against her will during a verbal altercation outside of her vehicles and repeatedly made threats against her.

He is also accused of inappropriately touching the victim and grabbing her neck before the separation.

The victim notified police of the incidents the next day, on September 23.

Following the report, Clinton was relieved of his police powers and both an administrative and criminal investigation were launched by the department's Office of Professional Standards and Criminal Investigations Division.

Clinton, 28, has been with the Prince William County Police Department for more than six years and has now been placed on administrative leave as the criminal case proceeds to trial.

He is charged with two counts of kidnapping, one count of sexual assault and one count of assault.

He is being held without bail with a court date set for November 13.

“This type of behavior is reprehensible and does not represent the values ​​and professionalism of the members of this agency,” said Chief Peter Newsham of the Prince William County Police Department. “I commend our Criminal Investigation Department for acting quickly and effectively in bringing charges to ensure he is held accountable.”

The investigation is ongoing and further details will be released as they become available.