Correctional Officer Charged With Rape

Location of Incident: Women’s Work Release Treatment Center, 620 Baylor Blvd. New Castle, DE

Date of Occurrence: April 11, 2009

Suspect(s): Roger L. Thompkins, 46 of New Castle, Delaware (photo attached)

Resume:

This morning, Troop 2 Detectives arrested Roger L. Thompkins, a former Department of Correction employee, with Rape 2nd degree, Unlawful sexual contact 3rd degree, Sexual relations in detention facility, Official misconduct with unauthorized exercise of official functions, and Acts constituting coercion.

In this case, the 24 year-old victim is an offender at the Women's Work Release Treatment Center located at 620 Baylor Blvd in New Castle. She alleges that on April 11 Roger L. Thompkins, a correctional officer, had her respond to the laundry room located in the treatment center. The suspect was aware that the victim was coming up on a disciplinary hearing, and he advised her that he sometimes sits in on the hearings. He claimed that if she did not have intercourse with him, he would ensure that she got sent back to the Baylor Women's Correctional Institute. The suspect proceeded to have sexual intercourse with the victim in the laundry room. The incident occurred at approximately 1:20pm.

When Thompkins finished his shift and left the center, the victim informed a supervisor of the incident. Security video captured the suspect and victim entering and exiting the hallway to the laundry room. DNA evidence was collected and is pending analysis.

The suspect turned himself in this morning for processing and arraignment. He was released after posting a $34,000.00 secured bail.

Questions regarding Thompkins’ employment status can be directed to Mr. John Painter of the Department of Correction Public Information Office at (302) 857-5232. All other inquiries regarding the investigation and arrest should be directed to the Delaware State Police.