Man accused of raping teenager

WILLISTON, N.D. (AP) — A 28-year-old Williston man is accused of grooming a troubled 16-year-old by giving her gifts and drugs before forcing her to have sex with him.

The alleged victim’s mother says in a letter filed in Williams County court that Robert Noble courted the “troubled teen” and “manipulated her into thinking that he loves and cares about her.”

An officer with the Williams County Correctional Center on Wednesday said Noble remains in jail on a $50,000 bond. He’s charged with gross sexual imposition for compelling sexual intercourse with the girl by force or threat.

The Williston Herald reported that Noble had been ordered to stay away from the girl identified as “Jane Doe.” After violating the restraining order in October, he allegedly fled to Wyoming and was extradited back.

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