Firefighter arrested for sexual assault, placed on leave

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) - A Jackson firefighter has been placed on administrative leave after being accused of sexual assault.

Audric Simmons was arrested by Byram police Saturday on charges of statutory rape and sexual battery.

Jackson Fire Chief Willie G. Owens tells local news outlets that Simmons was immediately placed on leave from the fire department pending the outcome of an internal affairs investigation.

Simmons remains jailed Sunday, according to Hinds County jail records. It’s unclear if he has a lawyer to speak for him.

The Byram Police Department hasn’t responded to calls seeking information about Simmons’ arrest.