Chester County man charged with rape, attempted murder

CHESTER COUNTY, PA (WTXF) - Authorities in Chester County have arrested and charged a man in they say raped, and attempted to murder his wife on Valentine's day.

William Brown, 45, has been charged with rape, attempted murder and related offenses.

According to authorities, Brown's wife was granted a protection from abuse order against him on February 12, after he allegedly threatened her with a knife.

Just two days later, on around 8:30 a.m. Valentine's Day, police say Brown broke through a door in his wife's home, stabbing his wife's cousin with a butcher knife, and raping his wife.

Brown then threatened to kill his wife, her cousin and himself, before State Troopers arrived at the home, taking Brown into custody.

The victim and her cousin were transported to a hospital. The victim's cousin was listed in serious but stable condition.

"This is a classic and terrifying case of domestic abuse, with violence masquerading as love. The victim here is to be commended for having the courage and composure to call 911. She stopped what otherwise would have been a double murder," District Attorney Tom Hogan said of the incident.

Brown is being held on $500,000 cash bail.