The FBI is launching a new digital campaign and website today to help generate leads on a suspect named the “East Coast Rapist.” Agents say the suspect is a serial offender who has attacked women up and down the east coast over the last 15 years; the attacks are linked through DNA. Digital billboard with information will now appearing in Delaware, New York, Rhode Island, Maryland, Connecticut, Virginia and New Jersey.
Authorities say the first attacked occurred in February 1997 when a suspect approached a 25-year-old woman as she walked home. The man allegedly pulled out a gun and forced the victim into a nearby wooded area where he raped her. The FBI says since then, 17 other attacks total or attempted attacks have occurred.
The victims have been black, white and Hispanic and are usually approached outside as they walk. The suspect is described as black male who often wears a black mask or hooded sweatshirt. In some cases, he has been known to ask for money, but the FBI does not think that is his motive because usually after the assaults, no money has ever been taken.
