Havre man accused of raping 14-year-old defends self

Editor’s note: This case was dismissed Aug. 30, 2016, without going to trial.

Elias Rene Lovo, 33, of Havre was charged with raping a 14-year-old in a Great Falls hotel room Monday.

Lovo allegedly dragged the 14-year-old into a bathroom and had nonconsensual intercourse with her after her 12-year-old friend left the hotel room, according to statements made by the 14-year-old.

According to The Associated Press, Lovo and another man, Frances Benjamin, told officers who had been called that the girls had not been in the room and declined to say anything else.

“I know I look like a monster in the media’s eyes,” wrote Lovo this morning to the Havre Daily News. “But these are all allegations. With A lot of holes in the story. Just read it for yourselves. Does it make sense? I wish I could say more, but I have a great attorney and faith and God on my side and plan on beating this in court. I am not a rapist and never will be.”

According to the charging documents, medical evidence showed sexual activity had taken place, the AP said.

Lovo has been living in Havre for years. He is now out of jail on $50,000 bail.

Wednesday’s edition of the Havre Daily News will have more on the story.