Columbia resident sexually assaulted early Sunday morning

The 17-year-old was assaulted at the 5000 block of Commercial Drive.

By Stephanie Clark

Published March 9, 2009

A Columbia resident reported she was sexually assaulted early Sunday morning.

The 17-year-old victim said she was assaulted around 3:30 a.m. on the 5000 block of Commercial Drive, a Columbia Police Department news release stated.

The assault was reported to police department after the victim received a medical exam at University Hospital on Sunday afternoon.

"We're continuing our investigation," Sgt. Ken Hammond said. "My investigator has spoken with the possible male suspect, but at this time there is not enough probable causes to be certain."

The suspect is described as a 20-year-old male Columbia resident, the news release stated.

The news release stated witnesses were also identified and questioned after the incident.

CPD officers are familiar with this type of crime.

"Unfortunately, sexual assault is not an uncommon crime," Hammond said. "I have an investigator that does nothing but investigate sexual assault."

Hammond said sexual assault victims should find a safe place to hide away from their attacker following an attack. He said victims should also seek medical attention immediately to obtain any forensic information as well as to look for sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy.