In a disturbing incident, a 32-year-old man named Rodney Joseph has been apprehended and accused of attempting to sexually assault a homeless woman in Florida. Reports from Local 10, NBC Miami, and CBS Miami reveal that Joseph faces charges of kidnapping, attempted armed sexual battery, and assault with a firearm, as confirmed by local authorities following his arrest on Wednesday.
According to police accounts, the suspect approached the 40-year-old victim in a Miami neighborhood on Monday, enticing her with an offer of a ride to a shelter. Despite accepting the offer, the victim soon realized they were not heading towards the intended destination.
Unfamiliar with Joseph, the victim attempted to escape the car when, as per NBC Miami's arrest report, he promised to provide money in exchange for her exposing herself.
Refusing this proposition and asserting she was not involved in sex work, the situation escalated with the driver physically assaulting her, punching and choking her while holding the car door shut, as reported by CBS Miami, citing police sources.
When ordered a second time to expose her breasts and refusing again, the driver allegedly resorted to brandishing a firearm, threatening to kill her if she did not comply, according to Local 10.
Despite the terrifying circumstances, the victim managed to free herself during the assault and escape. Subsequently, she contacted the police from a nearby gas station, as detailed by CBS Miami, and later identified Joseph from a photo lineup.
Miami Dade police express concerns that Joseph may have targeted other "vulnerable, homeless" women in the area by presenting himself as helpful, offering assistance to reach a homeless shelter while dressed in medical scrubs type clothing, as reported by Local 10.
As of Friday, it remains unclear whether Joseph has entered a plea, with no attorney listed in court records.
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