Danville, WV - Minor Accusing Former Police and Firefighter, Christopher Osborne, of Sexual Assault at the Danville Volunteer Fire Department

A Former Firefighter is Charged With Sexual Assault

According to Metro News, 25-year-old Christopher Osborne is facing accusations that he sexually assaulted a minor while at the Danville Volunteer Fire Department located at 220 Park Ave, Danville, WV 25053.

A victim has accused Osborne of sexually assaulting her at the fire station on January 19, 2021. Allegedly he took the minor to the bunk room in the fire station, where he proceeded to sexually assault her. Osborne was a probationary firefighter during the time of the assault. He has since been fired in light of the allegations. Additionally, on February 1, 2021, Christopher Osborne was fired from his position as a Marmet police officer. 

Osborne is facing the following charges: 

• aggravated sexual abuse
• attempted aggravated sexual abuse
• kidnapping 
• attempted kidnapping

Osborne is already facing charges of witness tampering and using a fire to commit a felony following an incident in 2019. Allegedly Osborne set fire to a victim's home, causing it to be destroyed. Combining all his charges, he could receive life in prison. 

Legal Rights of Victims of Sexual Assault by a Firefighter

Attorney Jesse Forbes is an experienced sexual abuse lawyer who has represented many victims in lawsuits. When interviewed, Paul shared his insight on the legal rights of those sexually assaulted by a firefighter.

“Firefighters, like police, are supposed to be trusted to care for people and protect towns by preventing crime and enforcing laws. While most firefighters and police are trustworthy, a few have been charged with exploiting their position of power and trust. The victims of this such abuse should understand their legal rights.”

“Reporting any sexual assault by a firefighter or police will result in a criminal investigation. This investigation is important to the legal process. In some cases of sexual abuse, victims and their families may have grounds for a civil lawsuit against the firefighter and even their employer. The employer of the abuser may be held liable for playing a negligent role in the crime. This could include if previous complaints were reported against the firefighter, but they were ignored, and the suspect remained employed. Another example would be if they failed to run a background check revealing a history of misconduct before hiring the officer. Victims and their families are highly encouraged to consult with an experienced sexual assault lawyer in order to determine whether they have grounds for a civil lawsuit.”

Sources:

Metro News