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Boise man charged with rape, kidnapping in Bozeman hotel incident

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Posted at 11:21 AM, Feb 22, 2021
and last updated 2021-02-22 13:22:27-05

BOZEMAN — A Boise man charged with kidnapping and rape in a Bozeman hotel faces a $250,000 bond after being seen in Gallatin County Justice Court on Monday.

Masimba Ruwo, 35, is charged with aggravated kidnapping and aggravated sexual intercourse without consent.

According to charging documents, on Friday, Feb. 19 at 6:09 a.m., Bozeman Police Officers responded after a woman reported she was sexually assaulted by a guest at a Bozeman hotel.

Ruwo was identified as the guest and was transported to the Law and Justice Center, while the victim was transported to Bozeman Health Emergency Room.

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Masimba Ruwo, 35, is charged with aggravated kidnapping and aggravated sexual intercourse without consent.

The woman told law enforcement that at approximately 2:50 am she received a call from Ruwo asking for a towel. When she brought the towel to the room, she said Ruwo grabbed her by the wrist and pulled her into the room and sexually assaulted her. A medical exam showed trauma consistent with a sexual assault.

Ruwo reportedly was advised of his Miranda Rights and chose to waive them when speaking to a detective.

He reportedly stated he called for a towel but denied raping the woman. When asked if the woman’s DNA would be found on him, Ruwo reportedly said it would only be found on his hand.

Ruwo’s next court appearance is set for Mar. 19, 2021.

The period following a sexual assault is emotionally charged, confusing, and frightening. Law enforcement say if you have experienced, or know of someone who has experienced, sexual assault help is available through the Bozeman Sexual Assault Counseling Center’s 24-hour crisis and support line at 406-586-3333.