Man who confessed on facebook to 2013 rape of college girl in pennsylvania arrested in france

Man Who Confessed on Facebook to 2013 Rape of College Girl in Pennsylvania Arrested in France

GETTYSBURG, PA – Ian Thomas Cleary from California was recently arrested in Metz, France, concerning a rape case dating back to 2013.

More than a decade ago, Cleary allegedly raped Shannon Keeler, a then-18-year-old student at Gettysburg College. The incident was immediately reported, but charges were only filed against Cleary in 2021.

Cleary was apprehended on April 24 and is currently detained in France awaiting extradition. His arrest came after years of eluding authorities following a warrant issued in the summer of 2021.

The breakthrough in the case occurred when Keeler received a disturbing message from Cleary on Facebook in 2021, in which he stated: “So I raped you.”

He also sent messages expressing regret and pledged never to repeat his actions.

On the night of the alleged assault, Cleary reportedly followed Keeler from a college party to her dorm, forcibly entered her room, and raped her despite her pleas and attempts to summon help via text messages.

After the incident, Cleary left the college, completed his education, and relocated to France.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

For story tips, corrections, or media inquiries, readers can contact Shore News Network through its official website and social media channels.