Thursday, October 5, 2017

State Police Seek Leads in Rape Investigation in Northumberland and Columbia Counties

Pennsylvania State Police investigators, in cooperation with local and federal partners, are seeking information as they continue their investigation into a rape that occurred in April of 2017.

Investigators believe this rape may be related to a series of incidents spanning several years within Northumberland and Columbia Counties involving the kidnapping, rape, or attempted kidnapping and rape, of female victims. Victims were confronted during the early morning hours inside of their residences.

In each incident, the offender entered the residence through a door or window. The victims were restrained during these assaults and in some cases were transported from their residences and raped at a separate location. Investigation suggests that the offender may have surveilled his victims at their residences for a period of time prior to each of the attacks. The suspect is described as a white male, 5′6″-5′9″ in height, average build, between 35-45 years of age. Police believe that he may have access to multiple vehicles. The offender appears to be familiar with the area and may have ties to the community.

The Pennsylvania State Police will be canvassing the area and conducting additional interviews in Northumberland County as part of the ongoing investigation. Investigators will produce identification upon request. The public is encouraged to contact their local state police station if they wish to confirm someone at their door is an investigator.

To assist in preventing future crimes, we encourage citizens to be vigilant in securing their residences and to be aware of their surroundings. Citizens are asked to report unusual or unfamiliar persons, vehicles, or activities, especially in the early morning hours. We strongly encourage anyone with information to come forward. Every lead will be thoroughly investigated. Anyone who believes they may have knowledge of this individual, these activities, or other similar incidents is encouraged to contact PSP Milton at 570-524-2662 or PSP Stonington at 570-286-5601.

If you have information on this crime, Call Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers Toll Free at 1-800-4PA-TIPS. All callers remain anonymous and could be eligible for a $10,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest of the unknown suspect responsible for these rapes and attempted rapes. Tips can also be submitted through the Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers site at https://www.crimewatchpa.com/crimestoppers/316.