Police say they have DNA evidence that suggests one man is behind five Clayton County rapes over two years.
Investigators didn’t suspect the cases were linked because the man did not use the same method to intimidate or gain access to the victims, Clayton County police said Friday. That was until the GBI returned evidence police said confirms the victims were assaulted by the same person.
“We are asking that all citizens be alert and mindful of their surroundings,” police said. “We are also asking that they make an effort to ensure that their homes are secure (closed and lock doors and windows).”
The rapes happened between July 2015 and May 2017 and involved black female victims, according to police. All but one woman lived in apartment or townhouse complexes in Clayton County, in the area of Battle Creek Road between the cities of Jonesboro and Riverdale.
Police said the cases were all different. In one, the man got through a residence through an unsecured window. In another, he allegedly forced his way into the apartment after the woman answered a knock at the door. Another woman was accosted outside as she walked to her apartment.
Once the man brandished a knife, police said, and another time he held a gun.
Clayton County police have released two sketches of the alleged serial rapist, drawn from two different victim’s accounts.
Anyone who can provide information on the man's identity should contact the police department. Tipsters can remain anonymous, and be eligible for rewards of up to $2,000, by contacting Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-8477, texting information to 274637 or visiting crimestoppersatlanta.org.
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