New Alaska Fire Chief Charged With Drugging, Sexually Assaulting Party Guest

A former Champaign-area paramedic who was set to become a fire chief in Alaska is facing criminal charges after prosecutors say he drugged and sexually assaulted a man who attended his going-away party.

David J. Dunn, 43, of Savoy, was arraigned in the Champaign County Courthouse Monday for felony criminal sexual assault, according to the Champaign County state's attorney office.

Dunn, a former Savoy Fire Department captain and paramedic, had thrown himself a going-away party Sunday to celebrate his position as a fire chief in Alaska, according to authorities. During the gathering, Dunn administered an IV to a guest who had been drinking, "allegedly to provide him with medication for nausea," prosecutors said.

Soon after, the guest said he was unable to move or speak. While paralyzed, the victim said that Dunn assaulted him. The victim reported the attack to police when he awoke the next morning.

The Champaign County Sheriff's Office interviewed Dunn, who admitted to administering medication to the victim through an IV and having sex with him.

Champaign County judge Brett Olmstead set bond for Dunn at $500,000. Olmstead also prohibited Dunn from contacting the victim or leaving the state if he posts bail.

He remains in custody from Monday night.

Michael Forrest, chief of Savoy Fire Department, said Dunn's last day working for the department was Friday. Forrest said Dunn was expected to catch a flight to Alaska on Monday.

"I don't want to make any comment on this unfortunate situation at this time," Forrest said.

Dunn is scheduled to return to court April 18.

Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to call the Champaign County Sheriff's Office.