A Laurel County man has been charged with illegally entering a woman's home and raping her, according to a news release from Sheriff John Root.

Donnie Sandlin, 39, allegedly was armed with a handgun. He is charged with first-degree rape and first-degree burglary, according to the release.

Sandlin had previously had a relationship with the victim, but they were no longer involved, said Deputy Gilbert Acciardo Jr., spokesman for Root's office.

Sandlin let himself into the woman's home before the alleged attack, which happened just before midnight Tuesday.

The woman was taken to St. Joseph Hospital in London for treatment.