POINT LOMA (CBS 8) - We're learning more about the rape investigation involving a San Diego police officer.
Officer Art Perea is currently on leave of absence from the force while detectives investigate an alleged rape case against the officer.
On Wednesday, Point Loma Nazarene University officials confirmed the victim is a student at the university. A source tells News 8 she is an adult, but under 21 years of age.
According to police, the victim is also accusing another woman of participating in the alleged rape.
News 8 has learned that woman is a food vendor at the university employed by the France-based corporation Sodexo, and our source says it was her who introduced the victim to the police officer. A company spokesperson for Sodexo tells News 8 the employee has been placed on leave during the investigation.
"I need to stress these are allegations only at this particular point," SDPD Chief William Lansdowne said.
Officer Perea worked in the police department's vice unit. For years, he was assigned to the gang and graffiti task force, even serving as a spokesperson for the unit.
"After discussing the case with him it was my decision to place the officer on administrative leave without pay and take away his police powers, which includes his badge and gun," Lansdowne said.
El Cajon police are investigating the alleged rape case. If investigators determine alcohol was involved in the alleged incident, the officer could face additional charges.
