SOUTHINGTON TWP. - Southington Township Trustees held a special meeting Saturday morning, voting to place 26-year-old Sherry Alexander on administrative leave while his criminal charges are pending.

Alexander is being charged with one count of felonious assault (F2) for an alleged incident that occurred on Wednesday night.

According to a police report, Alexander and his girlfriend were driving on Robbins Avenue in Niles before the car was parked at a restaurant in McKinley Heights.

Alexander allegedly exited the vehicle and began using various objects, such as rocks and a side rear-view mirror, to break the glass of the vehicle.

He then allegedly fled the scene before officers could arrive; however, he was eventually apprehended by police. Alexander was released on bond on Friday.

The victim was allegedly taken to a hospital for treatment.

Southington Fire Chief Scott Bower said that he holds all firefighters to a high standard, whether on-duty or off-duty.

"We always uphold the standards that we as members and public servants to the residents of our township, so we always keep the best interest of the township, our residents, and our employees in mind," he said.

Bower adds that the department has begun an internal investigation into the matter.

21 News reached out to Alexander, who said he has no comment at this time and has retained legal counsel.

Alexander is due back in court on Monday, March 9, for a preliminary hearing.

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