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AP-SC--Deputy-Rape,0137

Charleston sheriff's deputy charged with rape

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SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (AP) -- A Charleston County sheriff's deputy has been arrested and accused of sexually assaulting a women in an alley behind a business in Summerville.

Multiple media outlets reported that police arrested 25-year-old Pressley LeGrande Gaskins and charged him with first-degree criminal sexual conduct and kidnapping after he surrendered to investigators Tuesday.

Charleston sheriff's Chief Inspector Mark Fields says Gaskins has been placed on administrative leave without pay until the case is resolved. Gaskins had been with the department for three years.

Affidavits say the woman was held against her will and Gaskins repeatedly assaulted her Sept. 23.

The woman told police she had been drinking at a bar and met the officer, who followed her when she went out to smoke.

If was unclear if Gaskins has an attorney.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

APNP 09-29-10 0852EDT