COLUMBUS, Ohio — A member of the Columbus Division of Fire was charged with rape over the weekend and has been placed on administrative duty, 10TV's Lacey Crisp first learned on Monday afternoon.
Fairfield County Common Pleas Court documents say that 38-year-old Christopher Shaffer “unlawfully did engage in sexual conduct” with the victim on or about July 21.
Documents also say that Shaffer "knew or had reasonable cause to believe that [the victim’s] ability to resist or consent was substantially impaired because of a mental or physical condition or because of advanced age."
A spokesperson for the Columbus Division of Fire said they're aware of the criminal charges and that Shaffer has been placed on administrative duty. While on administrative duty, he will not have contact with the public.
“Per division protocol, upon the conclusion of the criminal case, the Division of Fire will initiate an administrative investigation,” their statement said.
Steven Stein, president of the Columbus Fire Fighters Union IAFF Local 67, said in a statement that they take all charges like this “very seriously.”
“As fire fighters and members of this community we want to provide the best possible service to the citizens of Columbus— that means holding our members to the highest standards of trust and responsibility,” Stein wrote. “We are leaving this investigation in the very capable hands of the police, the City of Columbus and other relevant authorities.”
Shaffer appeared in Fairfield County Court of Common Pleas on Tuesday where a judge gave him a $350,000 bond. The judge said if he posts bond, he will be required to wear an ankle monitor.