5 days ago
Tips lead to arrest in 2024 rape, kidnapping case in Cleveland
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CLEVELAND (WJW) – A suspect has been arrested in connection with the June 2024 kidnapping and rape of an elderly woman, Cleveland police announced Thursday.
James Collins was taken into custody on May 27 by members of the Cleveland Division of Police NICE Unit after investigators received multiple tips from the public, police said. He was located on the city's West Side following a renewed appeal for help in identifying the suspect.
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The assault occurred June 25, 2024, near East 79th Street and Rawlings Avenue.
The victim, an elderly woman, was severely beaten and raped. The suspect fled the scene in a dark-colored Chevy Equinox with a distinctive small spare tire on the rear driver's side.
After a renewed call for help in the case was issued, police said the Sex Crimes Unit received several leads that ultimately led to Collins' arrest.
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'The Cleveland Division of Police extends its sincere thanks to the public for their assistance and to all officers involved in the investigation and apprehension,' the department said in a statement.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Collins was given a $150,000 bond in court Wednesday.
His preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 6.
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