News

Peterson was arrested in Michigan after an investigation connected him to an incident that was reported to have happened on Forest Street during the 2013 Homecoming weekend.

"Both (Peterson) and the victim have connections with Ohio University and were affiliated with the Marching 110," according to a news release sent from the Athens County Prosecutor's Office. Katie Quaranta, spokeswoman with Ohio University, told The Messenger that Peterson is not currently enrolled at OU and not a current member of the Marching 110. He may or may not have been part of the alumni band at the time of the incident.

According to the indictment, Peterson allegedly "attempted or threatened to inflict physical harm on (the victim)."

He was accused of rape and sexual battery in a felony complaint filed Oct. 7, but the indictment added additional charges.

Prosecutor Keller Blackburn said the woman had consumed alcohol, leading to her impairment during the alleged rapes.

Peterson allegedly raped the woman three times on Oct. 13, 2013. The grand jury indicted him on six charges to cover "alternate theories" on how the alleged rape occurred, Blackburn said.

He was charged with aggravated burglary for allegedly entering her home to commit the crimes, according to Blackburn.

The initial investigation into the allegations fell cold after investigators could not find enough evidence to continue the case, according to previous Messenger reporting. But new DNA evidence was uncovered during further investigation started in January by the prosecutor's office.

Peterson waived extradition from Michigan and was transported to the Southeastern Ohio Regional Jail, according to the news release.

An arraignment is scheduled in Athens County Common Pleas Court for Wednesday at 11 a.m.