Police: Suspect wanted in attempted sex assault of teen in Arlington is in custody

ARLINGTON, Va. - Police say they've arrested a man wanted for allegedly trying to sexually assault a teenager after breaking into her Arlington apartment on Friday morning.

Investigators released a photo of 30-year-old Jermaine Johnson, also of Arlington, on Saturday morning, asking for the public's helping in finding him. Police said Johnson was wanted for attempted rape and burglary in an incident that took place around 7:30 a.m. Friday in the 800 block of S. Frederick Street.

Arlington County police say the suspect forced his way into the victim's apartment, and was armed with a knife. They say he held the victim against her will, and tried to sexually assault her, but at some point he either got spooked or decided to run away. The victim sustained minor injuries in the attack and was taken to the hospital.

Police responded to the neighborhood searching on the ground and by air with their helicopter to try to find the suspect, but they were unable to locate him. Police blocked off a small park with yellow tape as they collected evidence nearby.

On Saturday morning, police released Johnson's photo, identifying him as the suspect. His arrest as announced just before 5 p.m.

According to Arlington County police, Johnson was at his home Saturday morning. Officers who were watching him saw him leave and tried to arrest him, but he ran. They were able to catch up to him.

Johnson was arrested about five miles from where the attempted assault took place on Friday morning.

Police said there is no connection between the victim and the suspect. Under Virginia law, they could not say if Johnson has a criminal history.

Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Detective J. Echenique of the Arlington County Police Department's Special Victim's Unit at 703-228-4241 or at jechenique@arlingtonva.us. Anonymous tips can be left with Arlington County Crime Solvers at 866-411-TIPS (8477).