Sexual Assault, Indecent Exposure Charges Announced After Incident In Manassas Store

MANASSAS, VA — A man was arrested in Manassas and charged with indecent exposure and sexual assault on Wednesday, according to the Prince William County Police Department. The man, Joseph Alexander Simmons, was accused of exposing himself to a woman and her one-year-old daughter at Ollie's Bargain Outlet.

The incident occurred at 4 p.m. on Wednesday at the store located at 8351 Sudley Road in Manassas. The victim, a 23-year-old woman, told police that a man inappropriately touched her as he walked by her.

She continued shopping, but claimed that the man continued to follow her throughout the store. Later, the victim saw the man exposing himself and making inappropriate gestures towards her and her 1-year-old daughter, according to the police report. She contacted police as the man fled the store.

While they were investigating the incident, officers found a man who matched the description of the suspect walking nearby. He was detained and arrested, following an investigation.

The man, Joseph Alexander Simmons, was charged with indecent exposure, sexual assault, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. He was initially held on a $5,000 bond. His next court date is scheduled for March 30.

On Jan. 14, Simmons was convicted of indecent exposure and assault in connection with an incident that occurred on May 6. Simmons was accused of exposing himself at the Sunoco on Sudley Road and grabbing an employee.

The National Sexual Violence Resource Center can provide information about reporting and coping with sexual abuse. Their website also features training materials and tips to prevent sexual abuse. The Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network operates a 24/7 hotline for victims of sexual assault. The hotline can be reached at 1-800-656-4673.