ASHEVILLE, N.C. —

The suspect charged in the murder of a woman in Asheville last month is now charged with rape.

Jennifer Rose Gerard, 45, was found stabbed to death last month inside a home on Warren Avenue.

Buncombe County Detention Center

Based on evidence collected and witness statements, 32-year-old Douglas Michael Stroupe was charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury with intent to kill and first-degree burglary.

Detectives said that following laboratory analysis of forensic evidence, Stroupe is now charged with first-degree rape.

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