Oak Forest Attorney Accused of Sexual Attack Will Not Be Returning to City Role

An Oak Forest attorney accused of gagging, blindfolding and sexually assaulting a woman has been relieved of his role as Oak Forest's hearing officer, City Clerk Scott Burkhardt said Tuesday.

An arrest warrant was issued Sept. 13 for David Baitman, 59, who is accused of a sexual assault on a 51-year-old woman in his home, Sun-Times Media reported Tuesday. His bail was set at $300,000.

"He will not be returning to the city," Burkhardt said.

Baitman was responsible for local court hearings, including local ordinance and parking ticket cases. Through the next two hearing dates, the city's attorney will observe the hearing dates. He will observe procedures and suggest changes, if necessary.

The immediate circumstances allow the city to do that, Burkhardt said.

Baitman is accused of attacking the woman as she was moving out of his home. He reportedly tried kissing her, and when she resisted he threw her on the bed and handcuffed her. He's then accused of cutting off her clothing, gagging and blindfolding her. He then sexually assaulted her using an unknown object, according to police. 

Baitman later dragged the victim by her hair into a bedroom closet, where he held her overnight, according to authorities. He checked on her throughout the night and threatened her with a handgun, police said.

The next morning, the woman convinced Baitman to allow her to call a relative in Frankfort. The relative drove both to , where the woman was treated for her injuries. Baitman was admitted to the psychiatric ward.