Sterling Man With Outstanding Warrants Charged Over Walking Trail Attack

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA – A 34-year-old man from Sterling with outstanding warrants has been arrested in connection with a reported assault and attempted abduction in the Sterling area, county law enforcement said.

According to the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, Rolando Sanchez Velasquez, 34, of Sterling, was arrested on Wednesday in connection with the July 15 assault.

According to authorities, a woman was walking on a trail in the area of Algonkian Parkway and Lowes Island Boulevard during the evening hours when she was attacked. Deputies said the woman was able to fight off her attacker and run to a local business to call 911.

Sanchez Velasquez is charged with abduction and assault and battery. He appears to have pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated twice in 2022. Authorities said Sanchez Velasquez was also served with outstanding warrants for child neglect for an incident that occurred in Loudoun County.

Sanchez Velasquez was found to be an undocumented immigrant, and an immigration detainer has been filed. He is being held at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.

The LCSO said in a press release that tips submitted from the public were instrumental to their investigation. Anyone with more information is asked to contact the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office at 703-777-1021. To remain anonymous, call Loudoun County Crime Solvers at 703-777-1919.