FAIRFIELD — The town’s deputy police chief has been placed on paid administrative leave following his arrest Friday for domestic assault.

Deputy Chief Steven Trahan, 41, allegedly grabbed his girlfriend to keep her from leaving his house on Stoney Ridge Drive in Clinton, said Maine State Police Trooper Rick Moody.

Moody said Trahan’s girlfriend called 911 about 8 p.m. Friday to report the incident. Clinton police referred the call to Maine State Police because the on-duty Clinton officer had worked for Trahan and felt he had a conflict of interest, said Moody, who interviewed the alleged victim and arrested Trahan.

Moody said he brought Trahan to a bail commissioner’s home, and he was released on the condition that he would not contact his girlfriend.

Fairfield Police Chief John Emery said Trahan called him about midnight Friday and told him about his arrest. Emery said Trahan was immediately placed on administrative leave and will remain so through the court proceedings.

The town will conduct an internal investigation, in addition to that of Maine State Police, Emery said.

“The town takes these charges very seriously and places great importance on maintaining high standards of conduct and professionalism within our police force. We will work to learn the facts related to the event and will take appropriate action based on the findings,” Emery said in a written statement.

Trahan was hired as a patrolman in Fairfield in 1997 and was promoted to deputy chief in 2003, Emery said.

Trahan is scheduled to appear in Waterville District Court on March 22, said Moody.

Leslie Bridgers — 861-9252

lbridgers@centralmaine.com

Copy the Story Link