A Roanoke Rapids man has been charged in a Monday morning rape, according to the Halifax County Sheriff's Office.

Major Scott Hall said the victim was awakened from her sleep by Melvin Ray Harris, 49, and reportedly raped later.

Harris had permission to be at the residence and was familiar with the victim, Hall said.

The victim fled the residence, just outside Roanoke Rapids, and sought help from family friends. “Other than undergoing a traumatic event, the victim was not otherwise harmed,” Hall said.

The sheriff's office received the call around 4 a.m. Lieutenant George Evans and deputies Tim Strickland and Cody Fortier investigated. The investigation led to Evans arresting Harris and charging him with second-degree rape.

He was jailed on $250,000 secured bond and has a July 15 court date.