The state investigation into attempted rape allegations with ties to the Ironton City Council remains active.

That is according to Warren Morford, the attorney for the alleged victim.

“It is ongoing,” Morford said on Friday.

Last month an Ironton woman alleged that a professional colleague attempted to rape her at her home, according to a 911 call log.

Although the alleged assault happened within the city limits, Ironton Police Chief Jim Carey turned the investigation over to the Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identification. In a prepared statement Carey said that a local investigation would be a conflict of interest because the allegations involved a member of city council. Carey requested BCI&I get involved.

According to the 911 log, the alleged victim went to Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital where a hospital employee called 911 on her behalf.

“(The employee) stated (the woman) had told her that (the man) had tried to rape her at her home last night and she had to fight him off,” according to the 911 call log narrative.

Since the county prosecutor is also the attorney for the city of Ironton and the case involves the city council, that office will not be handling any possible prosecution should the investigation determine it is warranted, according to Brigham Anderson, assistant prosecutor.

“That would be a conflict,” Anderson said. “Once the investigation is complete, it will be turned over to the Ohio Attorney General.”

It is The Tribune’s policy — under most circumstances — not to name rape or sexual assault victims or the accused until they are formally charged.