Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department's Sexual Assault Unit announced an arrest has been made in connection with First Degree Sexual Abuse of a Client offense that occurred on Monday, June 10, 2019, in the 3600 block of 16th Street, Northwest.
At approximately 7:25 pm, the victim was receiving a therapeutic treatment from the suspect at an establishment at the listed location. During the treatment, the suspect sexually assaulted the victim. The suspect and the victim are known to each other.
The suspect is an MPD officer and has been employed with the department since 2012. He is assigned to the Fourth District. His police powers have been revoked and he is currently in a position where he has no contact with the public.
On Thursday, June 13, 2019, pursuant a DC Superior court arrest warrant, 42 year-old Pearce Then, of Adelphi, MD, was arrested and charged with First Degree Sexual Abuse of a Client.
“The Metropolitan Police Department does not condone any criminal or immoral conduct by an employee,” said Chief of Police Peter Newsham. “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.”