Police: Man facing several charges including rape, assault in Union County
A man has been charged with first-degree rape in Monroe after a thorough investigation, the Monroe Police Department announced.
On Sept. 26, 20-year-old Luis Miguel Vail-Lopez was charged with first-degree rape, kidnapping, assault by strangulation and Interfering with emergency communication.
Authorities say the rape happened on Sept. 19 in the area of Engleside Street near Iceman Street in Monroe.
Police arrested Vail-Lopez at his home on Icemorelee Street on Sept. 23 and was transported to the Union County Jail.
“This is a heinous crime,” Monroe Police Chief Bryan Gilliard said. “My thoughts are prayers are with the victim in this matter, and our agency will continue to work to ensure that they receive the assistance and justice they so deserve. I am grateful to the officers and detectives, who through hard work and a detailed investigative process, were able to get Mr. Vail-Lopez, a dangerous criminal, identified, charged and arrested.”
The condition of the victim is unknown, as well as what led up to the crime.
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On Sept. 27, police said they had obtained additional warrants for Vail-Lopez for assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious bodily injury and first-degree kidnapping.
An additional investigation revealed that Vail-Lopez has been linked to a violent assault that occurred on Sept. 3 near the 1300 block of Patterson Street. Police said that assault left the victim with severe physical injuries.
“I could not be more proud of our officers and detectives that have worked these cases and tracked this investigation up to this point,” Gilliard said. “The victims involved in these cases should also be commended for their bravery and willingness to allow us to be their voice through the investigation of these crimes. As an agency, we will continue to assist and support the victims of this violent criminal and work with the Union County District Attorney’s Office to achieve a successful prosecution.”
Police said Vail-Lopez has been notified of the additional charges and served the additional warrants. He is being held under a $350,000 secured bond.
The investigation is still ongoing. If you have any information related to the suspect or crime, you are asked to contact the Monroe Police Department at 704-282-4700.
Check back to this story for updates.
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