An Armona man wanted on suspicion of raping a girl under 18 years of age was arrested early Tuesday morning when law enforcement officials located him in the bingo hall at the Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino.

Kings County Sheriff's deputies have been on the lookout for 31-year-old Michael Steven Alvarez for a week now, since an incident report was filed about the Armona man's involvement in an alleged rape case. Law enforcement officials say that Alvarez took advantage of the unidentified girl while out on parole and forcibly raped her.

The victim reportedly suffered no serious physical injuries during the incident, according to law enforcement officials.

Security personnel at the Tachi Palace were contacted about the missing man and reported his presence to deputies following his arrival at the casino.

During his arrest, he was found in possession of a small quantity of methamphetamine that he was reportedly carrying for "personal use."

He was booked into the Kings County Jail on suspicion of rape, threats to terrorize, possession of a controlled substance and a violation of parole. He is being held in lieu of $110,000 bail.

Sheriff's Department officials say that the matter was handed over to the Kings County District Attorney's Office, which may file additional charges when Alvarez appears in court for his arraignment.

The reporter can be reached at 583-2425.

(Oct. 9, 2008)