The Berkeley Police have arrested Michael Anthony Skinner, 21, of Berkeley, in connection with the attempted rape of one victim and sexual battery committed against two other victims on Nov. 9.
In a statement released today, BPD said Skinner was arrested on the day of the attacks and has been charged with assault with intent to commit rape, attempted robbery, two counts of sexual battery, and probation violation.
At approximately 5:40 p.m. on Saturday Nov. 9 an 18-year-old woman was attacked as she was walking in the 2200 block of Bancroft Way. The suspect grabbed the victim and forced her to the sidewalk. The suspect struck the victim several times. Based on the police investigation, it appeared the suspect intended to sexually assault the victim. A nearby pedestrian came to the victim’s aid and chased the suspect away. The suspect was located and detained in the 2000 block of Allston Way.
During the detention, BPD received reports of two additional incidents of sexual battery that appeared to involve the same suspect.
At approximately 5:15 p.m. an 18-year-old woman was walking in the area of Telegraph Avenue and Bancroft Way. She attempted to step around the suspect, who was blocking her way. The suspect stepped in front of the victim, reached under her skirt and touched her in an inappropriate manner. The suspect then attempted to take the victim’s purse. The victim was able to maintain control of her purse, and the suspect fled west on Bancroft Way.
Between 5:15 p.m. and 5:40 p.m. a 21-year-old woman was walking in the 2200 block of Bancroft Way. As she passed the suspect, the suspect grabbed the victim’s buttocks. The suspect was confronted by the victim’s companion, and the suspect became aggressive, taking a fighting stance. The victim and her friend left and subsequently called the police.
The police investigation linked Skinner to all three assaults. Skinner was arrested, charged and booked into the Berkeley city jail.
BPD is urging anyone with information regarding these cases to please contact their Sex Crimes Detail at (510)-981-5734 or the non-emergency line at (510) 981-5900. If a caller wishes to remain anonymous he/she can call the Bay Area Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Related:
Parolee charged in Berkeley robberies has violent past (11.14.13)
Berkeleyside Police Blotter: Crime in Berkeley 10/31-11/06 (11.12.13)
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