A local woman’s living arrangement turned into a waking nightmare when she was allegedly sexually assaulted in her own bed—by someone she trusted enough to share her home with.
According to investigators, the woman had allowed the man to stay as a roommate for about three months. But early one morning, she awoke to find him leaning over her in bed, whispering that “it was just a dream.”
She says he then tried to kiss her—but she kept her mouth closed. That’s when things escalated. She told deputies the man pulled up her nightgown and touched her private areas. Horrified, she told him to stop and got out of bed—only to realize she was completely naked.
Shaken, she immediately woke another roommate to call for help and contacted law enforcement.
Before deputies could arrive, the man re-entered her room and tried to cover his tracks, claiming he had just come in to “check on her” and that he’d never do anything like that because he “loved her like a daughter.” Then, he fled the scene.
Lawrence County Deputies collected statements and DNA swabs from the victim in an effort to build a case and locate the suspect.
🏠 Living with Others? Here’s How to Protect Yourself
We often hear about danger in dark alleys or from strangers—but sometimes, the threat comes from inside your own walls. Here’s how to protect yourself:
🔐 Set Boundaries and Stick to Them
- Private space is sacred. Lock your bedroom door at night.
- Be clear about what’s acceptable and what isn’t from day one.
📱 Create a Safety Net
- Share your living situation with trusted friends or family.
- Keep a phone nearby at night and consider a personal alarm.
👀 Watch for Red Flags
- If someone seems too possessive, controlling, or emotionally unstable, don’t brush it off.
- Comments like “I love you like a daughter” can sometimes mask unhealthy obsessions.
🚓 If Something Happens:
- Call the police immediately.
- Preserve evidence: don’t shower or change clothes until medical help arrives.
- Get medical attention, even if you’re unsure whether a crime occurred.
- Reach out to support services—you don’t have to go through it alone.
📞 RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
No one should wake up afraid in their own home. If your instincts tell you something’s wrong—listen. You deserve to feel safe in your space. And if someone crosses that line, speak up. Help is out there.
