Texas Rangers release description of serial rapist

Citizens in Leon County first became aware of a problem in July when a Marquez woman was attacked in her own home. When another Marquez woman was assaulted in early September the county became very alarmed. Slowly the people were notified that physical evidence linked these rapes to others outside the county. The last attack to occur in Leon County was in Centerville on November 24.

Today authorities are investigating as many as 12 rapes, attempted rapes or burglaries in Lavaca, Leon, Bell and Falls counties between January and November of 2009. The Texas Rangers and local law enforcement authorities are seeking information and warning elderly women to beware of this predator.

This week Texas Ranger Chief Tony Leal gave the first description provided since the incidents began. He stated, “The rapist has been described as a thin, young, dark-skinned man between 5 feet 6 inches and 6 feet tall.”

Investigators believe the offender has a sexual preference for elderly females and therefore may not be in a romantic relationship with a woman his own age. The suspect has demonstrated his familiarity with each of these communities and apparently has the freedom, either in personal life or at work, to move about during the late evening and pre-dawn hours.

Anyone who may know someone fitting the description and characteristics of the rapist is urged to contact their local law enforcement agency or the Texas Department of Public Safety Fusion Center at 1-866-786-5972. Callers may remain anonymous and a reward for information is being offered by local Crime Stoppers programs.

At least three Citizens Crime Watch groups have been created in Leon County with the intent of patrolling the communities. Everyone is asked to be vigilant of their surroundings at all times and notify local authorities if they notice suspicious activity. Police recommend that residents lock their doors and windows and leave their outside lights on at night.

This investigation involves the combined efforts of the DPS, the Yoakum Police Department, the Luling Police Department, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, The Bell County Sheriff’s Office, The Falls County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service and the FBI.