Richland County (WLTX) - Richland County deputies are investigating a sexual assault and an attempted sexual assault in Northeast Richland County.
The first incident took place at 1 a.m. May 3 at the Oak Grove Apartment complex on Mallet Hill Road. At the time of the incident, the victim was taking out some garbage. Officers say the suspect grabbed the victim by the hair, physically assaulted her, removed her pants, then sexually assaulted her.
The suspect is described as a black male in his late 20s who is approximately 6'0 and 180 pounds.
On May 11, deputies say another female victim was attacked at the Cambridge Oaks Subdivision as she was taking out the garbage. That incident took place at 11:00 p.m.
Deputies say the suspect grabbed her from behind, pulled her hair, and forced her to the ground stating he needed to "talk to her".
That victim pulled mace from her pocket and sprayed the suspect in the face. The suspect then ran away.
That suspect was only described as an older white male. Deputies say the victims did not know their attackers.
Anyone with information should call Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC, or e-mail a tip in to www.sccrimestoppers.com. You can also text information in by texting "TIPSC" plus your message to CRIMES (274637). Either way you choose, your identity will remain anonymous, and you could be eligible for a cash reward.
Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott is encouraging all citizens to be aware of their surroundings and report all suspicious activity including vehicles that seem out of place. Lott is asking that all citizens help prevent crime - be vigilant, be an extra eyes and ears for law and help take the opportunity away from the criminals.
5/14/2009 7:29:21 PM
