Metropolitan Police Dept. (MPD) First District Commander Diane Groomes and PSA 102 Lt. Sharon Mcinnis requested that Sgt. Rice of the MPD Sexual Assault Unit attend last night’s (April 11) PSA 102 meeting to address the community’s concerns about an alleged sexual assault, which reportedly happened on April 5 in the 900 block of 8th Street NE.

Information about the alleged incident was distributed April 10 by a citizen's post to several community blogs and listservs.

Sgt. Rice confirmed to the group that his unit is investigating an allegation of a crime, but would not offer specific details of the case. He reiterated that if it was determined a crime was committed—or there exists a potential danger to the community—his unit would immediately notify PSA 102 officers.

When asked if residents should be concerned, he responded that residents always should be mindful of their surroundings anywhere in the city.

Sgt. Rice explained that due to the difficult nature of sexual assaults, an investigation is often necessary to ensure that a crime was committed. He said if police determine that a crime has occurred, his team would file a report and proceed with a case.

Both Sgt. Rice and Lt. Mcinnis said they understood the community’s concerns, but emphasized, “this seems to be an isolated incident.”

Lt. Mcinnis praised the online listservs and blogs as important communication tools for the community. However, she cautioned residents to be careful about posting allegations as factual information, especially when police investigations are not complete.

Full PSA 102 minutes of the April 11 monthly meeting will be distributed in the next few days.