Iredell Man Charged With Sexual Battery, Kidnapping: ICSO

STATESVILLE, NC — An Iredell County man was arrested and charged with two counts of misdemeanor sexual battery and one count of felony second degree kidnapping after two women told investigators he inappropriately touched them.

According to the Iredell County Sheriff's Office, the incidents occurred at the Countryside Food Mart, located at 3062 Salisbury Road in Statesville.

In late August, ICSO investigators received a report from a woman who said Rohit Patel, 35, of Statesville inappropriately touched her in the store.

During the course of the investigation, a second female victim was identified. She told investigators Patel had also assaulted her in the past, and told detectives "after Patel had inappropriately touched her he attempted to keep her from leaving the store by stepping in front of her and shoving her backwards. Patel continued to forcibly shove her towards the rear of the store."

ICSO said based on evidence and statements gathered during the investigation, warrants were obtained for Patel's arrest. His secured bond was set at $25,000.