North Gwinnett News

A Georgia State University campus police officer has been arrested by Gwinnett County police on charges he kidnapped and raped a Lawrenceville woman, who first reported the incident on Aug. 5.

Police have identified the suspect as 59-year-old Terry Payne of Loganville, a recent report from FOX 5 Atlanta said. He allegedly used his badge and authority to carry out the attack on the victim, who has been identified as an acquaintance of the officer.

"They were acquaintances and then got to know each other over a period of time and decided to meet up for dinner," Sgt. Jennifer Richter, Gwinnett County Police Department spokesperson, told FOX 5 Atlanta.

Authorities said the woman reported the incident at a local hospital the day after the two met for drinks at a restaurant, FOX 5 reported. The attack took place at a nearby hotel after the woman had one alcoholic beverage that caused her to lose her memory.

While police noted that the woman’s story is consistent with the use of a date rape drug, nothing has been confirmed while they continue to await toxicology reports; FOX 5 said.

Gwinnett County Police are now using surveillance video from the restaurant as part of their ongoing investigation and are reminding people to be vigilant in doing all they can to protect themselves and remain safe, the FOX 5 report said.