College Student Accused of Raping a Woman in St. Joseph

(KNSI) – A 19-year-old St. John’s University student from Kenya is accused of raping a woman in St. Joseph.

Brian Muindi Kimithi, a member of the university’s Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), was arrested and charged after law enforcement responded to a reported sexual assault on College Avenue South around 3:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 27th.

According to the criminal complaint, the victim, an adult female, told law enforcement she woke up to find Kimithi assaulting her. She said when she attempted to resist and call for help, Kimithi allegedly grabbed her throat and strangled her with one hand while continuing the assault. The victim reported difficulty breathing during the strangulation and experienced pain and difficulty swallowing afterward.

After the assault ended, the victim left the room and reported the incident to another individual, who contacted law enforcement. Officers documented and photographed injuries, including scratches and bruising to the victim’s neck, as well as scratches to her chest, stomach, and shoulder.

Kimithi was located and arrested. According to investigators, he provided a statement to law enforcement after being read his Miranda rights, admitting to the sexual assault.

He has been charged with 1st degree criminal sexual conduct.

Bail has been set at $500,000, and Kimithi has been ordered to surrender his passport. His next court appearance is scheduled for February 23rd.

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