DURHAM, N.C. — There's more trouble for an area fire chief. Carrboro Chief Rodney Murray is accused of violating a restraining order. It's his third arrest since Christmas Eve.

Murray is charged with violating a domestic violence protective order. On Friday, a judge set his bond at $500,000 after the prosecutor called Murray a danger to himself and others.

Prosecutors say in the last four weeks, his actions have become increasingly disturbing.

"It appears they are escalating and are more intensified," said Assistant District Attorney Stormy Ellis.

"There's never been any allegations he's done anything violent towards the victim, just the harassing aspect," said defense attorney Butch Williams.

On Christmas Eve, Murray's ex-girlfriend Gina Ambrocessia told police he was calling and harrassing her. Later that night, the chief was found in a ditch, where he'd crashed his car. He was later charged with driving while intoxicated.

One week later, on New Year's Eve, Murray was charged with stalking Ambrocessia. Court papers revealed he'd shown up at her Durham townhouse and neighbors said they'd heard a loud commotion that night.

Murray was supposed to be in court for a hearing Thursday about a protective order. However, only Ambrocessia showed up. Nearly 12 hours later, police say Murray turned up on her doorstep.

Now, the courts have ordered the chief undergo psychological testing. Murray, who has been the Carrboro fire chief for nearly a decade, turned in his resignation earlier this week. It's effective in March.

Court records show Murray also owes the Internal Revenue Service more than $55,000 in unpaid taxes and penalties.