Middlesex District Attorney Urges Public to Take Precautions When Answering Online Ads

A 22-year-old man allegedly used online services to target victims, according to authorities.

Tewksbury Police responded to a reported robbery about 5:30 p.m. Saturday, at the Holiday Inn on Highwood Drive. They learned that two victims had made arrangements to meet with the defendant. The defendant allegedly robbed the victims at knifepoint before fleeing.

Authorities also believe that the defendant is connected to a June 30 incident at a Motel 6 in Tewksbury where a female victim communicated with the alleged defendant through Backpage.com, and was subsequently sexually assaulted and robbed at knifepoint.

“The defendant allegedly used online services to target victims,” D.A. Ryan said in a statement. “Anyone who answers online ads should take the same precautions they would for meeting any stranger. The proliferation of websites like Backpage.com has enabled predators to pinpoint potential victims. One of our concerns at this point, is whether others may have suffered similar abuses.”

Christian Cepeda-Ortiz, 22, of Lowell, was arraigned in Lowell District Court on charges of armed kidnapping with sexual assault, armed robbery, aggravated rape, armed assault with intent to rob, and witness intimidation, according to Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Tewksbury Chief of Police Timothy Sheehan.

Tewksbury Police Department and the Middlesex District Attorney’s office are now conducting a joint investigation into these matters.

“I want to emphasize how dangerous posting on these sites like Backpage.com can be. Unfortunately many people underestimate the risks that are involved,” Chief Sheehan said.

The prosecutor assigned to this case is Suzanne Kontz. The Victim Witness Advocate assigned to this case is Kathleen Keefe. These charges are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Tewksbury Detective Brian Farnum and Detective Ed Jackman are in charge of the ongoing investigations. Anyone who may have information regarding these or similar incidents is asked to call Tewksbury detectives, at 978-851-7373.If you wish to remain anonymous please call the Tip Line @ 978-851-0175 or send an email to tewks_detectives@tewksbury-ma.gov