DUMFRIES, Va. — A former Dumfries police officer of eight years is behind bars, charged with the sodomy of another man.
A 27-year-old Fredericksburg man told police and the FBI that he was sexually assaulted when he was a child between the ages of 12 and 16-years-old. Police said the assaults took place between 1996 and 2001.
During that time the suspect was a Dumfries Town Police Officer. He’s also the current owner of a popular ice cream shop that attracts families and children.
Joseph Ruhren, 41, of 3231 Riverview Drive in Triangle, has been arrested and charged in the case, according to police documents. He’s already serving an unrelated sentence in Stafford County’s Rappahannock Regional Jail, according to police.
Ruhren was a Dumfies police officer between August 1996 and April 2004. He resigned from the force and is now the owner of the popular Jo Jo’s Ice Cream stand on Main Street in Dumfries, said Town Manager Daniel Taber.
Police said all of the assaults took place at Ruhren’s addresses, which changed several times over the years to include John Robinson Lane in Dumfries and Fox Lair Drive in Woodbridge.
The victim in this case is a known acquaintance of Ruhren, police stated.
Dumfries police were contacted by federal authorities during the investigation, were cooperative, but did not assist authorities during their investigation, said Taber.
Ruhren is charged with charged with 12 counts of forcible sodomy, four counts of indecent liberties, four counts of carnal knowledge, two counts of crimes against nature and one count of aggravated sexual battery, police state. His court date was not released.
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Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
