2 Sexual Assaults Lead To Arrests In Prince William County: Cops

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VA — Two men were arrested on Friday in connection with separate sexual assaults that occurred in Haymarket and Woodbridge, according to the Prince William County Police Department. Both men are charged with aggravated sexual battery and are being held without bond as their court dates are pending.

The two men were both accused of committing a sexual assault at their respective places of business. One man was an employee at the Tacos and Tequila Restaurant in Haymarket, while the other man was employed at Natural Elements Massage in Woodbridge.

The sexual assault at Tacos and Tequila occurred on Tuesday, July 6, according to the police department. A 16-year-old girl who was working at the restaurant told police that another employee inappropriately touched her during her shift.

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When the victim attempted to separate herself, the other employee grabbed her and sexually assaulted her, according to a police report. Authorities said the victim eventually got away when another employee intervened.

After their investigation, police identified the suspect as Mario Alejandro Perez Escobar, a South Riding resident. He is charged with aggravated sexual battery and abduction.

The other sexual assault, at Natural Elements Massage, occurred on Wednesday, June 30, police said. A victim, who police identified as a 30-year-old woman, received a massage at the business, according to the police report.

During the session, an employee of the massage parlor inappropriately touched the victim, police said. Authorities also claimed that the employee sexually assaulted the victim later in the session.

After the assault, the victim "quickly left the business and contacted the police," according to a police report.

The employee was identified as James Robert Thomas III, a Woodbridge resident. He was arrested on Friday, July 9 and charged with aggravated sexual battery.

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.