Police Arrest Man on Suspicion of Robbery, Attempted Assault of UC Student

Police arrested a 51-year-old man Monday in connection with the robbery and attempted sexual assault of a female University of California at Berkeley student. Around 11:30 a.m., the student was walking near Arch and Virginia streets near campus when a suspect approached her from behind and pushed her off the public walkway and into a secluded, grassy area, according to police. The suspect then pinned the victim on the ground and covered her mouth as she attempted to scream, then attempted to sexually assault her, police said.

The suspect stole the victim’s cellphone and identification before fleeing the area, according to police. Officers responded to the scene and located the suspect walking on Hearst Avenue near Walnut Street. Police have identified him as Wilfred Allen, a transient. Officers found Allen to be in possession of the victim’s property. He was arrested on suspicion of robbery, kidnapping, attempted sexual assault and probation violation, police said.

Allen has been booked into Berkeley City Jail and the case will be forwarded to the Alameda County District Attorney’s office for possible charges, according to police.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Berkeley Police Department’s special victims unit at (510) 981-5735. Callers who wish to remain anonymous can call Bay Area Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

By Bay City News