Rape Charge Filed Against Arlington Man In Crystal City Sexual Assault

ARLINGTON, VA — A 40-year-old Arlington man was arrested in connection with a sexual assault that occurred early Thursday in Crystal City.

Around 2:15 a.m., on Thursday, officers from the Arlington County Police Department responded for the report of a rape. A preliminary investigation determined that the victim was walking in Crystal City and began talking to the suspect, who led her to an outdoor area in the 200 block of 12th Street South. The suspect then sexually and physically assaulted the victim, according to police.

Once the assault had ended, the victim ran to the 900 block of Long Bridge Drive to seek help, investigators say.

After reviewing the evidence and interviewing witnesses, detectives identified Vernon Koning of Arlington in the case. Koning was taken into custody following a traffic stop on Thursday night. Police charged him with rape and strangulation.

Koning is being held in the Arlington Detention Facility without bond.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Maldonado at 703-228-4194 or mmmaldonado@arlingtonva.us.

Information can also be submitted anonymously by calling Arlington County Crime Solvers hotline at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). For community resources and contact information, visit the ACPD website.