Arlington County Police Department is investigating a sexual assault and robbery which occurred in the 1900 block of S. Bell Street on the evening of July 22.
At approximately 8:24 p.m., police were dispatched to the report of an assault with a weapon. The preliminary investigation indicates the female victim was walking in the Crystal City Shops when the male suspect approached, produced a box cutter, demanded money and stole her cell phone. The suspect then took the victim to a secluded area where he sexually assaulted her and struck her with the box cutter, resulting in a laceration. The victim was able to exit the area and seek assistance from individuals in the 1900 block of Richmond Highway who contacted emergency services. The victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment of physical injuries considered non-life threatening.
Responding officers established a perimeter and canvassed the area for the suspect which concluded with negative results. The suspect is described as a male in his mid-20s with dark hair and a beard. He was wearing a gray t-shirt, black shorts with gray leggings underneath and carrying a green duffle bag.
This remains an active criminal investigation. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Detective Maldonado at 703-228-4194 or mmmaldonado@arlingtonva.us. Information may also be provided anonymously through the Arlington County Crime Solvers hotline at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477)