An Ohio teen was arrested for allegedly live-streaming the rape of her friend.
On February 27, 18-year-old Marina Lonina and an unnamed 17-year-old female friend were drinking at a Columbus home with Raymond Gates, 29, according to the Associated Press.
Gates allegedly forcefully raped the 17-year-old.
Lonina was apparently heavily intoxicated and used the social media app Periscope to live-stream the attack.
Franklin County Prosecutor Ron O'Brien said Lonina also live-streamed nude images of the victim the previous night.
Lonina and Gates were arrested after a friend of Lonina who lives in another state saw images of the rape and reported them to authorities, Associated Press reports.
The pair were charged with rape, kidnapping, sexual battery and pandering sexual matter involving a minor.
Lonina's use of Periscope brought her an additional charge of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or a performance.
On Wednesday, O'Brien said,
People need to know and understand that the use of a smartphone to video events can constitute serious felony crimes. They should think twice before they use their smartphones to either photograph or video anything that's of a sexual nature.
Lonina's attorney said his client “categorically denies these charges."
She and Gates, who will appear in court on Friday, could go to prison for up to 40 years if convicted.
Citations: Woman charged with livestreaming alleged rape of teen friend (Associated Press)
