Massachusetts Police Officer Accused of Raping Young Man on Halloween

A Massachusetts police officer has been accused of rape, and his city plans to begin the process of firing him.

The Essex District Attorney's Office confirms that Brian Butler, a Salem police officer, was arrested late Tuesday afternoon by state police. 

Butler, a veteran officer and the husband of the city's police chief, Mary Butler, was ordered to be held on $10,000 cash bail during his Wednesday arraignment in Salem District Court on rape and indecent assault and battery charges.

"Like many in our community, I am surprised and deeply saddened by the allegations made against Officer Brian Butler," Mayor Kimberly Driscoll said in a statement. "While the incident is still under review, there is no doubt that this is a serious issue involving his conduct as a police officer while on duty."

Driscoll said Salem plans to begin termination proceedings immediately, "pursuant to civil service statutes." She also expressed confidence in Chief Mary Butler.

Prosecutors say the alleged assault happened on Halloween, when a man in his 20s was drunk and taken into police custody after flooding a Salem hotel room with water.

The man was not arrested, but kept in a booking area.

Prosecutors say the young man undressed, asked Butler for a blanket and tried to make a phone call, which is when Butler allegedly grabbed him from behind, brought him into a broom closet and performed oral sex.

Investigators say the incident was all caught on camera.

The victim told police he was afraid to say no because he was in protective custody.

"There are questions that are raised from his statement, whether this would have been consensual behavior," Butler's attorney Randy Chapman said.

Chief Butler says she's saddened by the allegations and will be taking some personal time off.

Brian Butler is on paid administrative leave during this investigation.

His next court date is in December.

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