South Bend man pleads guilty to third-degree rape

Published 7:00 pm Monday, June 19, 2017

Darrell Lee Thumm, 47, of South Bend, has pleaded guilty to third-degree rape, according to a report from the Pacific County Prosecutor’s Office.

The victim’s decision to contact police soon after the rape played a key role in getting a conviction, said Pacific County Prosecutor Mark McClain. South Bend officers were able to collect evidence while the victim was still in the hospital, he said.

“Too often rape victims delay reporting offenses because they are hurt, afraid, in shock, or are even ashamed and blame themselves, but I hope this case will demonstrate reporting these offenses early matters,” said McClain. “This woman went from victim to survivor when she decided to not left fear dictate the future of this case and called the police.”

Evidence collection is the key to any rape investigation, he said, and it needs to take place soon after the rape.

The prosecutor praised South Bend police and the local Crisis Support Network. “I recognize it’s easy to say ‘just call the cops,’ but I think we can all understand the fear that comes with putting yourself out there through an examination, who may learn of the assault, and even what a criminal prosecution case may be like. Thankfully, Crisis Support Network and our first responders came together for this victim.”

Sentencing is scheduled for July 14, in Pacific County Superior Court.