Updated: 10:28 a.m. Saturday, April 5, 2008 | Posted: 7:14 a.m. Thursday, April 3, 2008
LACEY, Wash. —
Police said the student was sexually assaulted by a man who appeared to be in his 50s as she walked alone on a trail near St. Martin’s University in Lacey.
Lacey police said that because the rapist used a Taser, it leads them to believe that the incident was premeditated and he was out to target someone.
Despite receiving many tips after releasing a sketch of the rapist, police said they are still hoping a witness comes forward that can help lead them to the rapist.
VIDEO: Hunt For Lacey Rapist Intensifies
Lacey detectives tell KIRO 7 they are checking their database of local sex offenders to see if anyone matches up with the rapist's description.
Police said there are also a number of homeless encampments in the woods near campus that detectives have investigated.
"At this point in time we do not believe the suspect is one of the homeless folks that lives back in that general vicinity. We believe this based on the victims information to be somebody who is not homeless," said Mack.
Police patrols around the school have been increased and anyone who needs to get on or off campus can get a security escort 24 hours a day.
Police are recommending that women walk with a friend and always have a cell phone with them.
The victim was taken St. Peter's Hospital after the attack, but she has now been released and is recovering.
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