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DC officer charged with sexually assaulting victim during 'therapeutic treatment'

The 7-year MPD officer is assigned to the Fourth District, but his police powers have been revoked, officials say.

WASHINGTON -- A D.C. police officer has been arrested for sexually assaulting someone during a "therapeutic treatment" on Monday. 

Around 7:30 p.m., officials said the victim was receiving treatment from 42-year-old Pearce Then, an officer employed with D.C. police for seven years. The incident happened in the 3600 block of 16th St., Northwest.  

During the treatment, police said he sexually assaulted the victim. The suspect and the victim knew each other prior to the incident, police said.

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Then has been charged with first degree sexual abuse of a client. He's assigned to the Fourth District, but his police powers have been revoked. 

Police said he is currently in a position where he has no contact with the public.

"The Metropolitan Police Department does not condone any criminal or immoral conduct by an employee," Chief of Police Peter Newsham, said. "Officer Then’s actions are a disgrace to everyone who wears a badge. I am thankful that MPD’s Sexual Assault Unit was able to quickly bring this case to closure."

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