Former deputy accused of domestic violence, sexual assault

PALMERDALE, Ala. – A former deputy accused of choking one woman and sexually assaulting another is jailed in Alabama.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office told news outlets Monday that 27-year-old James William Parsons is charged with escape as well as domestic violence by strangulation and sodomy.

One woman said she and Parsons were living together when he choked her until she couldn’t breathe. A second victim said Parsons sexually assaulted her after they met online.

Chief Deputy Randy Christian said Parsons resigned two weeks before the first woman came forward.

Authorities say Parsons tried to escape after being arrested and taken to sheriff’s headquarters on June 7. He was captured after a brief foot chase and is being held without bond at the Jefferson County Jail.