Oregon Man Charged in Brutal Kidnapping, Assault

A Morrow County, OR man is behind bars after being arrested for a weekend assault and kidnapping of a former girlfriend.

44-year-old Travis Lane Thomas was taken into custody after Morrow County Sheriff's responded to a call from a woman who had been staying in an RV in Boardman. Upon arrival they found Heather Payne, who was seriously injured and covered in blood.

Officials learned she'd been staying in the RV on a friends property when Thomas allegedly kidnapped her and took her to his home, which is on the same property. He assaulted her leaving her with a serious head wound.

She was taken to a nearby hospital where she remains. Thomas plead not guilty to kidnapping and assault charges. He reportedly tied her arms and legs then committed the assault. The woman was eventually able to free her self and call authorities. Officials say the two had previously been in a relationship.