Accused Serial Rapist Pleads Guilty

DRESDEN, Tenn. - Bruce Tuck, the man suspected as the "Big-Bellied Rapist," pleaded guilty in a Weakley County courtroom to 19 counts related to three rapes in Martin, Tennessee Thursday morning.

As part of a plea deal, 36-year old Tuck will serve 60 years in prison without parole. Circuit Judge Bill Acree accepted the plea agreement that dropped three minor charges against Tuck.

As a multiple sex offender, Tuck must serve 100 percent of his effective 60-year prison term. He was given 20 years in each of three rapes, the terms to be served consecutively.

Of the 19 counts, 6 were for aggravated rape, 2 counts for each of the three victims.

Tommy Thomas, Weakley County District Attorney General, met with the Martin-area victims after the court hearing. The victims and their families were satisfied with the ruling, and were relieved to not go to trial and testify.

According to the Shelby County Sheriff's office, Tuck is also under investigation for a Cordova rape in June, as well as other incidents being investigated by Memphis Police.

So far, Tuck has not been charged in any of these incidents; however, evidence will be sent to the Shelby County District Attorney to be presented to a Grand Jury in January.