A veteran Plainfield police sergeant has been suspended from his job and could end up behind bars, officials say.

Sgt. Samuel Woody is accused of committing a sexual assault while on duty and in uniform. According to the Union County Prosecutor's Office, the 41-year-old officer coerced a woman to perform a sexual act while he watched and gratified himself.

The incident happened at Muhlenberg Hospital last July but was only reported to police last month, authorities say.

The Union County Prosecutor's Office says it's not clear if he and the alleged victim knew each other prior to the incident.

Sgt. Woody has been suspended without pay. Prosecutors say the investigation is ongoing and investigators want to hear from anyone who may have additional information.