Police arrest suspect in rape of elderly woman

Cape Girardeau police on Sunday arrested a suspect in the rape of an 81-year-old woman -- as the man hid in her home when officers were pursuing someone caught breaking into a car.

Police chief Carl Kinnison said the suspect, who he declined to name until formal charges are filed, was seen in the vicinity of Ellis and Hickory streets attempting to break into a car. When challenged by neighborhood residents, the man fled and tried to take refuge in the home of the rape victim, Kinnison said.

The woman heard glass breaking and called police, Kinnison said. Officers also responded to calls from the people who stopped the auto theft, he said.

The man was caught inside the home, Kinnison said. "He fit the description very well" of the rape suspect, Kinnison said.

The rape occurred Nov. 30. The victim, who lives alone, described her attacker as a man in his mid-20s, with a medium build and about 6 feet tall. The victim said her attacker forced his way in after she answered a knock at her door. The man demanded money, assaulted her and stole her wallet as he left.

The man was arrested on suspicion of burglary and attempted stealing, Kinnison said.

He expects the rape charge will be filed today.

rkeller@semissourian.com

388-3642