The Fort Lauderdale Police Department is investigating an armed sexual battery that occurred on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at approximately 2:30 a.m. Detectives say the preliminary investigation has revealed a woman was walking along South Federal Highway near Southeast 17th Street when a man armed with a handgun following her in a car got out and approached her demanding money. The woman refused, and the suspect dragged her back to his car where she was sexually battered at gunpoint.
Some of the incident was caught on surveillance video. It shows the suspect vehicle in the area before and after the incident occurred. The suspect is described as a Hispanic male, in his 20s, who is approximately 5’10”, with short dark hair, a clean-shaven face, and a medium build. He was driving a gray Hyundai Sonata, approximately 2018 or 2019 model, with dark tint. He was possibly wearing a white t-shirt with a dark-colored sweater and long dark pants.
Detectives are asking for anyone with information or video surveillance of this incident to contact Detective Sergeant Hector Martinez at 954-828-5510 or Detective Christopher Chylack at 943-828- 5535. Information can also be provided anonymously by contacting Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477).