EUNICE, La. (KLFY) -- A Eunice man has been arrested and accused of raping a mentally handicapped woman last year.

Thomas Chesson, 65, of Eunice was charged with third degree rape, according to St. Landry Parish Sheriff Bobby J. Guidroz.

“On August 20, 2023 the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office received a complaint in reference to a rape that occurred approximately one year ago, involving a handicapped adult female who has the mentality of a child,” Guidroz said.

Authorities said the victim was staying overnight at a friend’s house when the victim and her friend went to Chesson’s house to borrow some milk. When it was time to leave, the victim wanted to stay, and the friend could not force her to leave, leaving the victim alone with Chesson.

When the victim was questioned by detectives, she said that while she was at Chesson’s home, she walked into his bedroom to watch television. While she was sitting on the edge of the bed, he allegedly forced himself on her.

Authorities said the victim’s friend was questioned, she said the victim walked back to her house approximately 45 minutes later, and told her that Chesson forced himself upon her. She said that the victim’s exact words were “he raped me for milk.”

On Jan. 4, an arrest warrant for third degree rape was issued for Chesson. On Jan. 17, Chesson was transferred to the St. Landry Parish Jail and was booked on the warrant. Bond was set at $10,000.

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