Athens police find no evidence of rape in downtown investigation

The Athens-Clarke County Police Department has concluded a thorough investigation into a reported sexual assault involving a University of Georgia student, finding no evidence that a rape occurred. The investigation began after a 20-year-old student reported waking up near City Hall with no memory of the previous night and observing a man nearby.

During the course of the investigation, detectives discovered fraudulent financial transaction card activity involving the student. This led to the arrest of Timothy Evans, 49, who faces charges of financial transaction card theft, financial transaction card fraud, and identity fraud.

Police also identified and arrested a second suspect, 40-year-old Dennie Smith, who has been charged with financial transaction card theft and financial transaction card fraud. The department stated it takes all reports of sexual assault seriously and provided resources for survivors through The Cottage Sexual Assault Center.