Crime & Safety
Woodbury Man Said He 'Loved' Girl He Assaulted: Charges
A Woodbury man was charged for sexually assaulting a girl for three years. Police say he sent her more than 300 text messages since January.
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MN — A Woodbury man faces charges for sexually assaulting a girl for three years. Patrick David Lucas, 45, is accused of criminal sexual conduct with a minor younger than 13.
Woodbury police began investigating the man after a girl reported that Lucas began sexually abusing her when she was 12, according to authorities. Police say when the girl asked Lucas why he was assaulting her, he said "I love you," the South Washington County Bulletin reported:
A police search of the girl's phone revealed that Lucas sent her more than 300 text messages since January, all of which "appeared inappropriate" and alluded to sexual contact Lucas had with her.
Police said Lucas also left a photo of his genitals on a tablet for the girl to find.
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