Former Durham police officer arrested, charged with sexual assault
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Durham Police Department (DPD) has announced the arrest of a former officer. The investigation started on August 21, 2024, when the department received a complaint from a community member regarding inappropriate conduct by Rayshawn Taylor who was an on-duty police officer when the allegations were made.
The DPD investigation revealed an apparent sexual assault that had occurred during the interaction between Taylor and a civilian. DPD's Professional Standards Division opened an investigation and Taylor was placed on administrative duty hours after the incident was reported.
In law enforcement, transparency and accountability, it's key, it's the oath we've taken, the commitment we have made to our community is to ensure that any time a complaint is brought forward from our community members that we take each and every allegation seriously," said Durham Police Chief Patrice Andrews.
Taylor resigned employment with DPD effective immediately on August 22, before the completion of the internal investigation, DPD said.
He was with DPD for 10 years making it to the rank of corporal and worked in a variety of capacities, including in the Special Victims Unit.
How the arrest unfolded
Durham police also launched a criminal investigation into the allegations. Investigators from the Professional Standards Division notified the Durham County District Attorney's Office of the open investigation. DPD Investigators also contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) because of the nature of the allegations and the fact that Taylor was acting in his official capacity when the incident allegedly occurred.
Durham County's District Attorney Satana Deberry notified DPD that, on Aug. 30, she had also requested the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) open an investigation. DPD investigators worked alongside investigators from the two agencies.
WATCH: Full DPD briefing on officer arrest
On Monday, nearly a month after the investigations, Durham Police obtained warrants against Taylor on state charges of first-degree kidnapping, sexual servitude and sexual battery.
Taylor was arrested Monday morning at his Mebane home. ABC11 was there as law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on Taylor's home.
Anyone with additional information about this case, or who believes they are a victim of inappropriate conduct by Taylor is asked to call Corp. I. Harton of the Special Victims Unit at (919) 560-4440 ext. 29332.
The FBI is still investigating the case.
Taylor is due in court next month.
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