Detective said man confessed to harming woman

LIMA — Staff at a local hospital alerted police to a man who told them he strangled his girlfriend, a detective said Friday.

Lima Police Detective Scott Leland testified police became aware of the slaying of 43-year-old Teresa Burge following a call from staff at St. Rita's Medical Center. Leland is the lead detective in the homicide investigation against 51-year-old Raymond Collins.

“St. Rita's informed us the defendant was at the hospital and told the security people or treatment people that he had just choked or strangled his girlfriend,” Leland said.

After receiving the information, officers visited 1119 Holmes Ave. to check her welfare. No one answered the door, so officers forced their way inside and found Burge dead inside a bedroom, Leland said.

Leland testified at Collins' preliminary hearing at Lima Municipal Court. Magistrate David Cheney found enough evidence existed to send the case to the grand jury for a possible indictment. Cheney also ordered Collins' $1 million bond to continue.

Leland said he interviewed Collins several times.

“He did admit that he hurt his girlfriend,” Leland said.

Leland said some of the interviews were recorded including on DVD.

“He did make admissions on DVD,” he said.

While officers went to the home the morning of Feb. 27, they believe the crime happened the evening of Feb. 25, Leland said.

An autopsy revealed Burge died of strangulation, Leland said.

Collins' attorney, Jerry Pitts, asked Leland if Collins had any health problems. Leland said emergency room staff told him Collins may have some history of schizophrenia.

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