Bellingham Bistro Owner on Trial for 5 Sexual Assaults

BELLINGHAM (AP) — The rape trial for a Washington state bistro owner has begun with one of his alleged victims detailing how he prevented her from leaving his apartment and sexually assaulted her after a night of drinking.

The Bellingham Herald reports that Jamison Rogayan's trial began Tuesday and is expected to last up to three weeks.

During open statements, Deputy Prosecutor Evan Jones said Rogayan took what he wanted from his alleged victims, including the one who testified about the apartment assault. Jones says there are five women who have been sexually assaulted by Rogayan.

The defense declined to make an opening statement, but Attorney Alexander Ransom has said Rogayan denies the allegations.

The former co-owner of Cosmos Bistro in Bellingham is charged with rape, indecent liberties and unlawful imprisonment.