Following months of investigation, an arrest has been made in the case of an attempted rape along the Little Econ Greenway trail in Orange County. The Sheriff's Office confirmed that Jacoby Vontrell Tillman, 23, is in custody for the attack that occurred the morning of July 25 near Yates Road. ClickOrlando reports that the woman was assaulted from behind during her run along the trail.
Video released by officials showed the suspect moments before the incident, which led to a tip that ultimately resulted in Tillman’s arrest. While running along the trail, the victim encountered an unknown man who attacked her, causing her to momentarily lose consciousness, as reported by WESH. When she awoke, she discovered her shorts and underwear had been removed.
Community members have expressed dismay and caution, urging others to stay vigilant while on the trail. "Anything can happen at any time, so it's always good to walk with a partner, walk with a friend,” Daniel Castro, a local trail user, told WESH.
During the investigation, when speaking to Tillman's girlfriend, details emerged. "I didn't rape the lady, I was trying to kill the lady," Tillman purportedly said. The girlfriend revealed Tillman had previously choked her to the point of unconsciousness. Tillman has been charged with attempted sexual battery, battery by strangulation, and false imprisonment, according to the ClickOrlando report.
