Prince William County Officer Faces Abduction, Sexual Battery Charges

WOODBRIDGE, VA — A Prince William County police officer was arrested and charged in connection with inappropriate contact with a woman while on duty.

James Thomas Clinton, 28, of Woodbridge, was arrested Thursday after a woman reported two encounters with the officer. The officer and victim know each other, police say. Police had started investigating on Monday when the victim notified the department.

According to police, the first incident happened on June 4 in a secure area of the Potomac Mills mall where the victim worked. While the two were speaking, Clinton forcibly handcuffed the victim. Police say the victim was not being detained or arrested for a criminal offense. After a brief time, the officer released the handcuffs and the two parties separated.

The second offense happened on Sept. 22 at Turley Park in Dale City, where the two previously agreed to meet. Police say Clinton forcibly held the victim against her will and made repeated threats while they were arguing outside their vehicles. In addition, Clinton inappropriately touched the victim and repeatedly grabbed her around the neck before they separated and left the area.

When the victim brought the allegations forward, Clinton's police authority was revoked, and the department's Office of Professional Standards and Criminal Investigations Division started an administrative and criminal investigation. Clinton had six years of service as a police officer and is currently on administrative leave while the criminal case goes through court.

"This type of behavior is reprehensible and does not represent the values and professionalism of the members of this agency," said Prince William County Police Chief Peter Newsham in a statement. "I commend our Criminal Investigations Division for acting quickly and effectively in bringing charges to ensure that he is held accountable."

Clinton is charged with two counts of abduction, one count of sexual battery, and one count of assault and battery. He is held without bond, and a court date is set for Nov. 13.