Home Invasion and Sexual Assault Under Investigation in Maplewood; Suspect At Large
MAPLEWOOD, NJ – The Essex County Prosector’s Office Special Victims Unit and the Maplewood Police Department are investigating the home invasion and sexual assault of a woman on Tuesday in Maplewood, according to a press release on Wednesday from Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II, and Maplewood Police Chief Police Chief Jim DeVaul.
The woman, age 24, first encountered the man around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, and preliminary investigation indicates that he followed her home, forced his way into her house, and sexually assaulted her, stated the press release.
The woman was transported to an area hospital, where she was treated and released, according to authorities.
The suspect remains at large, according to the release.
An update from Maplewood police on Tuesday about the criminal investigation stated that “until further notice, the Maplewood Police will have additional personnel assigned to ensure the safety of our community.”
Maplewood police also advised residents “to call 911 to report any suspicious persons, vehicles or activity. Residents should be aware of their surroundings especially if walking alone and not provide personal information to strangers. Do not open your door to strangers, talk thru an open window if you have to. Call 911 immediately if possibly being followed. Parents are asked to have conversations with their children on safety and instruct them to call 911 first in the event of an emergency.”
The investigation is active and ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.
Related articles
Updated: ‘Active Criminal Investigation’ Underway in Maplewood, Says Police Chief
Helicopter Assists in Search for Carjacking Suspect in Union on Tuesday