Man arrested on rape charges

A Russellville man was taken into custody Tuesday after authorities received information about a sexual relationship he had with a minor.

Jonathon Copeland

Russellville Police Department investigator Lt. Scotty Lowery said Jonathon Wayne Copeland, 21, of 1447 Tyler Ave., Russellville, is charged with two counts of second-degree rape after family members found out about a sexual relationship between Copeland and a 14-year-old girl.

Lowery said the incident allegedly occurred July 7 and happened on two separate occasions.

Authorities said family members filed a report on Monday and Copeland was apprehended and brought in for questioning on Tuesday.

Officials said Copeland was 21 at the time of the alleged incident and had relations with the victim the day before and the day after her 15th birthday.

Lowery said warrants for Copeland’s arrest were issued Tuesday and he was found, brought in for questioning around 2 p.m. at the Russellville Police department, then arrested on the charges.

Lowery said if convicted, Copeland could face 2 to 20 years in prison and would be required to register as a sex offender.

Copeland is currently being held at the Franklin County jail on a $20,000 bondz.