Man on trial on rape charges

ATHENS, Oh. (WSAZ) – An Athens County man is in jail after being charged with 21 charges, including rape and attempted rape.

Robert Collins, 62, of Glouster, Ohio, was arrested on Nov. 5, according to a press release from the Athens County District Attorney.

Investigators learned that Collins had sexual intercourse with at least six children, both male and female, starting in 1985 and continuing through October 2024, the statement states.

In 1987 and 1994, Collins was convicted on charges of gross sexual imposition and rape.

Earlier this year, investigators began investigating Collins after several people came forward with reports of sexual assaults by Collins.

Collins was arraigned Nov. 5 in Athens County Common Pleas Court.

He is being held at the Southeastern Ohio Regional Jail.

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