Police began investigating Hammond after they were dispatched to Springfield Regional Medical Center on May 28 on a report of a sexual assault, according to an affidavit filed in the case. At the hospital, officers interviewed the victim who told them the night before she had rented a room at the Relax Inn so she “could consume some alcohol with friends.”
The victim said her friends left the hotel room around 11:30 p.m. and shortly after Hammond arrived and she let him in, the affidavit said.
The victim said Hammond made her remove her clothes and, “proceeded to hit, smack, choke and sexually assault her.” The woman told investigators that she was choked at times to the point of passing out.
“She stated that she was told by Hammond that if she reported this to the police or went to the hospital that he would finish what he started and kill her,” the affidavit said.
The victim left the motel and drove immediately to the hospital, according to the affidavit.
Hammond was arrested on Sept. 3. His next court date is scheduled for Friday, according to online court records.
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