Man Charged with 1st Degree Rape & Kidnapping

Lavatae Evans

Sexual Assault Unit detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department have arrested Lavatae Evans after an investigation into an alleged rape he committed at his residence. On Wednesday, February 15, 2012, at approximately 3:50 p.m. Metro Division officers responded to a call for service at a home in the 2000 block of Brewton Drive to investigate a possible kidnapping.

When officers arrived they spoke to the female victim who stated she was at the Transit Center earlier in the day waiting for a bus when she was contacted by Evans. The victim and Evans are known acquaintances and lived together at one time. The victim stated that she voluntarily left the area with Evans to smoke marijuana. After smoking the marijuana with Evans, the victim stated she attempted to return to the Transit Center and that Evans prevented her from leaving while displaying a gun. The victim told officers she was in fear for her life and complied with Evans’ demands.

According to the victim, Evans took her to his home on Brewton Drive against her will and raped her. The victim contacted family members and indicated she was in danger and asked them to call 911. Officers arrived at the home and took Evans into custody without incident. Lavatae Evans has been charged with First Degree Kidnapping, First Degree Rape, and 2 counts of First Degree Sex Offense in this case. The investigation is continuing to determine if additional charges will be filed.

Anyone with information concerning this case may forward anonymous tips to our Crime Stoppers tip line at 704.334.1600.