STUARTS DRAFT, Va (WSVA) – A Staunton man is in custody on charges of rape.

Augusta County Sheriff Donald Smith reported that the sheriff’s office initiated an investigation into an alleged rape and abduction that occurred mid-January in the Stuarts Draft area.

The investigation revealed that the woman and the suspect had been involved in a relationship prior to the incident but had recently separated.

Smith stated in a release that Nathaniel Richard Stafford assaulted the woman, raped her, and kept her from leaving her home.

Smith added that the victim suffered minor injuries.

As a result, the 26-year Stafford was charged with felony abduction and strangulation as well as rape. He is being held without bond at Middle River Regional Jail.