Stranger Offers Child Piece of Gum in Columbia Heights, Sexually Assaults Her: Police

WASHINGTON, DC — A man has been arrested after a disturbing sexual assault on a child inside a store in the Columbia Heights neighborhood, according to a report from the Metropolitan Police Department.

Police say 46-year-old Adrian Rendon of Northwest followed a girl into a store in the 3100 block of 14th Street NW at around 4:03 p.m. Sept. 25.

"The suspect followed the victim inside a store for approximately 10 minutes and offered her a piece of gum prior to grabbing hold of her," the report states. "The suspect then grabbed her from behind and sexually assaulted her."

Rendon faces a charge of second degree child sexual abuse. Police suspect there may be additional victims and are asking them to come forward and provide more information.

The report adds: "Anyone who has information regarding this case or additional cases should call police at 202-727-9099. Additionally, information may be submitted to the TEXT TIP LINE by text messaging 50411. DC Crime Solvers currently offers a reward of up to $1,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and indictment of the person or persons responsible for an assault committed in the District of Columbia."

Image via MPD