BRATTLEBORO, VT (MyKeeneNow) A Brattleboro hotel owner is being held without bail after police say an investigation into a medical emergency at a Putney Road hotel led to serious criminal charges, including sexual assault and aggravated assault.

Brattleboro police and emergency responders were dispatched to the Travelodge on Putney Road shortly before 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 6, after receiving a report of an unconscious woman inside a guest room. Upon arrival, responders found a 38-year-old woman partially covered by a blanket and exhibiting visible injuries to her arms and face, according to court documents.

Police social workers and officers on scene observed bloodstains on the bed near where the woman had been sitting. She was transported to Brattleboro Memorial Hospital for treatment, where investigators later conducted a sworn interview.

According to an affidavit filed by Detective Lt. Greg Eaton, the woman told police she had been sexually assaulted by the hotel’s owner, whom she identified as “Neil.” Police say that individual was later confirmed to be Bankim Aghera, 52, the manager and owner of the Travelodge.

The woman told investigators that Aghera entered her room without permission, forcibly removed her clothing, and sexually assaulted her despite repeated attempts to resist. She reported being struck in the head during the assault and losing consciousness. Medical staff documented injuries consistent with her account, including bruising near her eye and other areas of pain.

Police detained Aghera at the hotel while securing the scene and preserving surveillance footage. Investigators later executed a search warrant on the room and the hotel office, seizing bedding, clothing, and video equipment.

Aghera was charged with aggravated assault under Vermont law and is also facing sexual assault charges. During a court appearance Wednesday in Windham Superior Court, Judge Michael Kainen ordered that Aghera be held without bail, citing the seriousness of the allegations and concerns for public safety.

Aghera pleaded not guilty and declined to speak with investigators after requesting an attorney. Court records indicate he has no prior criminal history. A future hearing will determine whether he may be eligible for release under strict conditions as the case proceeds.

Police emphasized that all charges are allegations and that defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.