An Indiana man was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly raping a woman last year.
University of Evansville baseball player Willard Peterson, 20, reportedly met the victim at an off-campus house party in November. The victim said she was “very intoxicated” when Peterson, who claimed he was sober, started talking to her and offered her a ride, according to WEVV.
The victim reportedly went with Peterson to his on-campus apartment so he could get his keys. The victim said she had laid down because her head was spinning. She claimed Peterson then started touching her and raped her, according to WFIE.
The victim reportedly pushed Peterson away and ran to the bathroom where she messaged a friend. WFIE reported that the friend picked up the victim and took her to her parents’ home. The victim’s mother then took her to the hospital.
Police claimed Peterson initially denied going home with anyone, but he eventually said the victim was in his room for 20 minutes. According to WEHT, Peterson admitted to having sex with the victim after telling cops that his DNA may have been recovered from a medical examination the victim underwent.
Peterson allegedly went on to claim the encounter was consensual. He also claimed the victim was the one who initiated the encounter, according to WFIE.
Peterson is charged with rape and sexual battery. His bond was set at $15,000.
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[Featured image: Willard Peterson/Vanderburgh County Jail]
