36-Year-Old Man Commits Sexual Assault, Attempts Escape from Police Custody

On July 26, 2020, a 29-year-old woman from Vanadzor reported that at approximately 11:15 AM the same day, an unknown man committed sexual violence against her. This information has been reported by the Investigative Committee of the Republic of Armenia.

Following the report, materials were prepared, which included an examination of the crime scene, a statement taken from the 29-year-old woman, and a forensic examination was ordered to clarify significant circumstances of the case.

A criminal case was initiated at the police department of Armenia under Article 139, Part 1 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Armenia (sexually violent acts), which was forwarded to the Vanadzor Investigative Division of the Investigative Committee for further investigation. The 29-year-old woman has been recognized as a victim.

During the investigation, the identity of the perpetrator was established as a 36-year-old resident of Vanadzor. He was located and arrested on suspicion of committing sexual violence against the woman against her will. Additionally, during his transfer from the administrative building of the Vanadzor Investigative Division, the 36-year-old man attempted to escape but was thwarted by accompanying police officers.

A criminal case was also initiated regarding the attempted escape under Article 34-355, Part 1 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Armenia. A decision was made to consolidate these two criminal cases into one proceeding for joint investigation.

Based on sufficient evidence, the man has been charged under Article 139, Part 1 (sexually violent acts) and Article 34-355, Part 1 (attempt to escape of individuals detained, arrested, or convicted in relation to imprisonment) of the Criminal Code. A motion has been submitted to the court requesting pretrial detention as a measure of restraint.

Necessary investigative and procedural actions are being conducted to clarify all circumstances of the cases and ensure an objective, complete, and comprehensive investigation. A forensic genetic examination has also been ordered to clarify significant circumstances of the criminal case. The investigation is ongoing.