DUNBAR, WV (WOWK) – The West Virginia State Police has been asked to investigate sexual assault allegations against a Dunbar Police Officer following a civil lawsuit , according to a letter sent to the Kanawha County Prosecutor’s Office.

The complaint was filed March 28. It alleges Dunbar Officer Chad Shafer violated the Constitutional Rights of a woman, identified only as J.R., and sexually assaulted, harassed and battered her inside and outside her own home.

“Even though we’re not involved in the lawsuit at this point in time, under the color of law we want to follow what’s right,” said Mayor Scott Elliott, City of Dunbar. “Hopefully, this is an allegation, and if it’s not, if it’s true, whatever happens, happens. If the officer is in the wrong, then it will be handled.”

According to Police Chief Brian Oxley, Shafer has worked in the department for 15 years. He was immediately placed on paid leave after the department was notified of the civil lawsuit on Monday.

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The civil lawsuit comes nine months after the city paid $2 million to settle a police brutality lawsuit, and four months after another police brutality lawsuit was brought against the department.

“It’s just another one in a long line of civil suits that the city is somehow getting wrapped up in,” said Robert Yeager, Dunbar City Council Member. “It absolutely makes the citizens question how they can trust the police department. We’ve got to change it.”

According to Elliott, the department has about 12 officers. One of the officers under investigation resigned and two others are currently suspended.

Oxley said the department will conduct an internal investigation, but they’ve asked the Kanawha County Prosecutor’s Office to also conduct a criminal investigation.

In a letter sent to their office, Oxley wrote, “Allegations of misconduct and criminal action have surfaced regarding Lt. Shafer’s actions while on duty, and it is imperative that these allegations are thoroughly investigated to maintain public trust and uphold the principles of justice.”

The letter continued saying, “It is essential that we uphold the highest standards of accountability and transparency within our law enforcement community … I am eager to collaborate with your office and the West Virginia State Police to ensure that justice is served and the public’s trust in our law enforcement agencies remains unwavering.”

13 News reached out to J.R.’s attorney for comment but has not heard back.

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