(WWJ) A Farmington Hills police officer is on leave from the department after he was charged with four counts of criminal sexual conduct.
Reports say Michael Rybinski is accused of sexually assaulting a female police cadet when he was off-duty.
He's facing one count of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and three counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct, according to the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office.
The alleged incident did not happen in Farmington Hills.
In a joint statement, the Farmington Hills police department and city manager say upon learning of the criminal charges, Rybinski was placed on paid administrative leave. The police department is also conducting an internal investigation into the matter.
The complete statement, from Farmington Hills City Manager Gary Mekjian and Police Chief John Piggott, reads:
“The City of Farmington Hills is aware that the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office has filed criminal charges against a member of the Farmington Hills Police Department related to an off-duty incident outside of the City of Farmington Hills. While the charges are serious in nature, at this time they are merely allegations, and the member is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
“Upon learning of pending charges, the Police Department immediately placed the employee on paid administrative leave and his law enforcement authority was suspended. When the Department learned in June that the member was under criminal investigation, he was immediately placed on administrative duty in a non-enforcement role. The Department is conducting an internal investigation of the matter, in alignment with the collective bargaining agreement disciplinary process.
“The alleged conduct does not reflect the values or standards of the City of Farmington Hills or the Farmington Hills Police Department. As a City, we are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for all members of our community and staff.
“While this process is ongoing, we extend our sincere concern to all those who may be affected by these allegations. The City is committed to transparency, accountability and upholding public trust.
"Out of respect for the judicial process, there is no further comment at this time.”
Rybinski is due back in court next week.