Prince William County PD officer arrested for abduction, sexual battery, assault

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — A Prince William County Police Officer was arrested by colleagues Thursday on abduction and sexual battery charges after a woman reported that the officer assaulted her two separate times while on duty, once placing the victim in handcuffs even though she was not under arrest. 

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

Police say Clinton last met with the victim near a Dale City park on Sunday. According to officers, Clinton and the victim knew each other. 

"The accused forcibly held the victim against her will while the two were involved in a verbal altercation outside their vehicles," PWCPD said. "The accused made repeated threats towards the victim. Additionally, the accused inappropriately touched the victim, repeatedly grabbed her around her neck before the parties separated and left the area."

The victim reached out to Prince William P.D. the next day to report Clinton. The woman also told officers about another violent interaction she had 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 being detained or otherwise arrested for a criminal violation," PCWPD said of the alleged June attack by Clinton. "After a brief period, the victim was released from the handcuffs and the two parties separated." 

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

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

"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 Investigations Division for acting quickly and effectively in bringing charges to ensure (Clinton) is held accountable."

Clinton is being held without bond. His court date has been set for Nov. 13.