Prince William County police officer arrested for assault on woman

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – A Prince William County police officer was arrested by colleagues on kidnapping and sexual assault charges Thursday after a woman reported the officer assaulted her twice while on duty and once handcuffed the victim even though she was handcuffed had not been arrested.

Officer James Thomas Clinton, 28, of Woodbridge, was identified as a suspect by the Prince William County Police Department (PWCPD) on Thursday. Clinton has been placed on leave while the criminal investigation continues in court, the department said.

According to police, Clinton last met the victim on Sunday near a park in Dale City. Officials said Clinton and the victim knew each other.

“The defendant forcibly held the victim against her will while the two engaged in a verbal altercation outside their vehicles,” PWCPD said. “The defendant repeatedly threatened the victim. “In addition, the defendant touched the victim inappropriately and repeatedly grabbed the victim around his neck before the parties separated and left the area.”

The victim contacted Prince William police the next day to report Clinton. The woman also told officers about another violent interaction with Clinton. In June, Clinton allegedly handcuffed her in Potomac Mills even though she was not under arrest.

“At no time during the interaction was the victim arrested or otherwise arrested for a crime,” PCWPD said of Clinton’s alleged attack in June. “After a short time, the victim was released from the handcuffs and the two parties separated.”

Clinton served in the PWCPD for more than six years. He was charged with two counts of kidnapping, one count of sexual assault and one count of assault.

The Clinton investigation was praised Thursday by PWCPD Chief Peter Newsham.

“This type of behavior is reprehensible and does not represent the values ​​and professionalism of this agency,” Chief Newsham said Thursday. “I commend our Criminal Investigation Department for acting quickly and effectively in bringing charges to ensure (Clinton) is held accountable.”

Clinton is being held without bail. His court date is scheduled for November 13th.

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