AHOSKIE – An Ahoskie man with a long criminal history once again finds himself on the wrong side of the law.

Edward William Valentine, 38, is being sought by the Ahoskie Police Department following the report of an alleged rape that occurred last week at an Ahoskie residence.

Upon his arrest, Valentine faces four felony charges – one count of second degree forcible rape and three counts of second degree sexual offense.

Ahoskie Police Chief Troy Fitzhugh reported that his office received a call at 1:30 a.m. on Friday, March 18 from Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in regards to a female victim of a rape.

APD Sgt. Michele Garrett and Officer Andres Snape responded to RCH to interview the victim.

&uot;From what we were able to obtain from the victim, she and the suspect were attending the same party at an Ahoskie residence,&uot; Chief Fitzhugh said. &uot;We also learned that the suspect and the victim were acquaintances, having dated in the past.&uot;

Fitzhugh went on to say that the victim and the suspect left the party and went to the suspect’s residence.

&uot;Apparently, things got out of hand while they were there,&uot; Fitzhugh said. &uot;The victim reported she and the suspect were engaged in a conversation prior to Mr. Valentine becoming angry, which led to the rape.&uot;

Those with information on Valentine’s whereabouts are urged to contact Ahoskie Crimestoppers at 332-4066. There, callers need only to give their information, not their names.

Valentine has a long criminal history dating back to 1989. He was released from prison in January of this year after serving an active six-year sentence for drug charges. He also has served time for other drug charges as well as an arrest record that includes DWI, providing false information, resisting arrest and driving while license were revoked.

He is described as a black male (5’5&uot; and 160 lbs.) with a medium build and dark complexion. He has two holes for earrings in his left ear and one earring hole in his right ear. He also bears a tattoo on his left arm.