New Castle County Police are still searching for a man they believe kidnapped and sexually assaulted two women in separate incidents over the course of a week.
The department is increasing the number of active-duty police officers on the street while the suspect is on the loose. It's also upgrading all suspicious persons and vehicle calls to Priority 1 complaints.
“That means you’ll see a two man, two car response to those types of incidences. They’ll be dispatched immediately,” said Officer J.P. Piser, of the New Castle County Police.
The first kidnapping occurred at Top of Hill Apartments in Wilmington on Monday, February 13.
The victim was taken from the parking lot of her apartment complex at approximately 7:45 p.m. and forced into her own vehicle by the suspect. She was then forced to withdraw cash from the ATM at the PNC Bank on Marsh Rd. She was also sexually and physically assaulted.
The second kidnapping happened at Arundel Apartments in Newark on Sunday, February 19.
The victim was approached by a man wearing a black mask in the common area of her apartment building. He forced her into her apartment where he demanded money, then physically and sexually assaulted her.
The suspect then forced the victim to withdraw cash from several ATMs in the Pike Creek area.
Ultimately, she was able to escape and call 911.
Both victims are in their late 20’s, early 30’s.
The suspect is being described as possibly a white male around 5'8" to 5'10" tall, with a medium build and a distinct accent.
Piser said the best way to stay safe is to avoid dimly lit places and be aware of your surroundings, which - among other things - means taking a break from looking down at your smartphone.
Police are asking anyone with surveillance footage of the area or information pertaining to this investigation to please contact Detective Levy via e-mail at cilevy@nccde.org.
Citizens can also submit a tip by calling (302) 573-2800 or via the NCCo Police Department website at http://www.nccpd.com. Tipsters may also call Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333.
Locations of the kidnappings:
