Memorial Day Monster: Broad Daylight Rape In Sight Of Families At Washington Park
May 24, 2009 10 Comments ›› Pat Dollard
Crime Scene: Riverfront Park Fountain
SPOKANE — A 53-year-old man was arrested Saturday afternoon for allegedly raping a woman in broad daylight at Riverfront Park.
Spokane Police Officer Tim Moses says the rape happened just before 2 p.m. on the north side of the river, near the park fountain. He said the two were within sight of many families who were at the park to enjoy the nice day.
When officers arrived they found Terry Thomas and a 27-year-old woman still in the act behind a large rock. Officers say the man was uncooperative and combative, but was eventually taken into custody.
According to the victim, she and Thomas had only met that day and were drinking in the park with another man. That man eventually left the two alone.
“I think he took advantage of her, probably due to her intoxication level,” Moses said.
The woman did not sustain any physical injuries, but is recovering at a local hospital.
Officer Moses said Thomas is a known panhandler in Spokane, but does not have a history of sexual assault or rape. However, he does have record with the police department.
“He has minor infractions for trespassing,” Moses said.
Although witnesses were disturbed and shocked having seen a rape play out in broad daylight, Moses says a rape like this is extremely rare.
“I’m not sure that the male was really aware of his surroundings as much as he should have been. He was using the landscape cover and thinking he was unseen,” Moses said.
Thomas is charged with second degree rape.
