Webster man arrested on rape charges, police seek additional information

WEBSTER — A Webster man has been arrested on a warrant for rape charges following a police investigation into an alleged sexual assault reported earlier this month.

The Webster Police Department said Tuesday that Officers Donovan and Cedeno received a report of a sexual assault on Aug. 6.

The victim, who was acquainted with the suspect, claimed she had been sexually assaulted by the man after going to his residence to hang out.

The suspect was later identified as Charles McNeil, 24, residing at 10 Deslaurier Ave, Apt. #3 in Webster.

According to the victim’s account, McNeil assaulted her as she attempted to escape the situation.

She was able to leave the residence after McNeil fell asleep.

Detective Hurton, working closely with special prosecutors from the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office and a Trooper from the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Squad, initiated the investigation into the incident.

On Aug. 27, Detective Hurton successfully obtained a warrant for McNeil’s arrest.

McNeil was apprehended without incident at the Webster Police Department on Aug. 30 by officers on the day shift.

He faces one count of rape.

Initially held on $10,000 bail, McNeil was arraigned at the Dudley District Court on Sept. 3.

The presiding judge reduced his bail to $2,000, which McNeil posted and was subsequently released.

Authorities, including the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Squad and special prosecutors through the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office, have been recognized for their support in the investigation.

The Webster Police Department is urging anyone with similar experiences involving McNeil to contact Detective Phil Hurton at the WPD Detective Bureau by calling (508) 943-1212.