Serial rapist on the loose in Charlotte
The Charlotte Observer is reporting this morning that a recent attack in the Myers Park area of Charlotte may be the work of a serial rapist. If you live in Charlotte or the surrounding vicinity, read this article to find out the latest news. Here’s a description of the attacker along with other information you need to know:
Have a Tip?
Police describe the attacker as a Hispanic man with a dark olive complexion and close-cut hair. He is about 35 and about 5 feet, 8 inches tall. In Tuesday’s assault, he was wearing jeans, a white T-shirt and a dark vest, police said.Police believe he drove off in a large burgundy pickup truck. The full-size truck had tinted windows and a loud muffler.
Police ask anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at (704) 334-1600.
Staying Safe
Rape by strangers is comparatively rare, police say. About seven out of 10 females who were raped or sexually assaulted nationwide in 2004 knew their attackers, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics. Here are some tips to protect yourself:
• Do not jog alone. In a public place, don’t allow yourself to be isolated. Try to stay in well-lit crowded areas.
• Travel with a purpose, scanning the area around you.
• Always let someone know the route you plan to take and when you expect to return.
• Avoid distractions such as talking on a cell phone. Do not wear headphones for music that may limit awareness of your surroundings.
• Don’t stop for strangers who approach. Be aware of cars that pull up close or pass more than once.
• Report anything suspicious to 911.IF YOU BECOME A VICTIM:
• Don’t try to reason with the attacker.
• Look for ways to escape.
• Carry something to protect yourself. If you decide to fight, don’t announce your intentions.
• If you feel you can fight back, do not start when someone has a gun or knife to your throat. The most vulnerable places to strike an attacker are in the throat, eyes and groin.
• Call 911 immediately. Or a rape-crisis hot line. You can check your phone book’s community information pages for a local number or call the National Sexual Assault Hotline, which will connect you to a local hot line: (800) 656-HOPE(4673).
Keep safe!