A Cuba man was arrested by members of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office on June 17 in Villa Ridge area and charged with allegations of second degree rape. He is being held on a no bond warrant.

According to official documents, the victim reported Blake Andrew Gilliam at 5:46 a.m. on June 11 with allegations of sexual assault that occurred on the same date. Deputies responded to a camper located on Fish Trap Rapids Loop in Villa Ridge where the adult female victim reported that she met Gilliam on social media and alleged that he sexually assaulted her after she repeatedly told him to stop.

During the course of the investigation, deputies were informed on June 16 of an additional allegation of sexual assault involving Gilliam that occurred on or about April 14 at the same location. This report is still under active investigation.

A warrant was issued for Gilliam’s arrest, and he was later taken into custody on June 17 in Cuba.

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is requesting that anyone who may have information related to either investigation contact detectives. Investigators are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have had contact with Gilliam, visited the property on Fish Trap Rapids Loop, or possesses information that may assist in these investigations.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division at 636-583-2560 and ask for Detective Laura Jones or extension 1123.

Both cases remain active and ongoing. Additional charges may be sought as the investigations continue.