A Centralia man accused of raping his neighbor was arrested Aug. 18 by local police.
Corey J. Hayes, 37, faces up to life in prison and $50,000 in fines if convicted for one count of second-degree rape. He made a preliminary appearance in Lewis County Superior Court Aug. 19.
According to an affidavit of probable cause filed by the Lewis County Prosecutor’s Office, the victim had recently moved into the building where the suspect also resided.
On Aug. 15, Hayes allegedly told the victim that he “had sex with everyone in the house, specifically referring to the females, and that she would be his next conquest,” according to the affidavit.
The victim reported having “no sexual or romantic relationship or interaction with Corey since that contact.”
On Aug. 18, Hayes offered to “take a look” after the victim “expressed frustration with the progress of moving in,” according to the affidavit. Hayes was reportedly in the hallway at the time.
According to her statement, the victim accepted Hayes’ offer of help. At some point, the victim walked into her bedroom. Hayes followed and closed the door.
According to court documents, the victim told Hayes “she didn't ask him to close the door.”
Hayes proceeded to grab the victim, force her onto the bed and rape her, despite the victim telling Hayes multiple times “no” and “I can’t do this,” according to the affidavit.
When officers attempted to contact the suspect in his room, he reportedly “refused to come out or speak with them.” A search warrant was obtained.
The dryer sheet Hayes allegedly used to wipe his semen from the floor after he raped the victim was found in the trash of the communal bathroom.
The victim was transported to the hospital to receive an exam.
Hayes has prior convictions for fourth-degree assault, domestic violence, in 2022 and 2015, along with a domestic violence protection order violation in 2016, according to the state. He also has six residential burglary convictions from 2008.
Bail was set at $100,000 cash or bond. It includes a sexual assault protection order, which prohibits Hayes from knowingly entering or remaining within 1,000 feet from the victim, her residence, workplace, school or vehicle.
Albert Didcock has been assigned to represent Hayes. An arraignment is set for Aug. 21.
