A Crystal City restaurant owner who was charged with rape in September has pleaded guilty to a lesser charge.

Tedros "Teddy" Tzehaye, 40, of Springfield, has pleaded guilty to assault and battery.

A 27-year-old District Heights, Md., woman told police she was raped in the early morning hours of Friday, Sept. 7. She was examined at a nearby hospital soon afterward.

The woman was an employee at Tagolio Pizzeria & Enoteca. Tzehaye was the owner. The restaurant had closed for the night, and no one else was around, investigators said at the time.

Following police investigation, a warrant for Tzehaye's arrest was obtained on Sept. 27. Police have said alcohol factored into the incident.

Tzehaye entered his plea to a lesser charge on Nov. 5. The restaurant has since closed.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for 2 p.m. on May 7.

Chief Deputy Commonwealth's Attorney Molly Newton prosecuted the case.