Downtown DeKalb was briefly turned into a crime scene Thursday afternoon after police say a naked man physically and sexually assaulted three women near the DeKalb Public Library and the nearby farmers market. Two of the women were taken to a local hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening, while a third woman declined treatment, according to authorities.
Police Response and Arrest
DeKalb police were called just after 1:15 p.m. Thursday when multiple 911 callers reported a man assaulting a woman at the library. As officers were heading to the scene, another report came in about a second assault near the downtown farmers market.
Officers soon found a man matching the suspect description and arrested him. Police said he had removed his clothing and was naked when taken into custody. Two of the women were transported to a local hospital, and the third refused medical treatment, as reported by FOX 32 Chicago.
Where It Happened
The attacks unfolded in the center of downtown, near the Haish Memorial building that houses the DeKalb Public Library and by the outdoor farmers market at 2nd Street and Locust Street. The library’s website and local market listings show how the two spots sit within a busy daytime corridor for residents, workers and families. For location details, see the DeKalb Public Library and the DeKalb Farmers' Market listing.
Victim and Suspect Status
Police said the suspect, whose name has not been released, was taken to a local hospital for a narcotics-related medical evaluation before being placed in custody. Criminal charges are pending, according to FOX 32 Chicago.
Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the attacks or has additional information to contact the DeKalb Police Department at 815-748-8400, per the City of DeKalb.
Resources for Survivors
Officials are also reminding residents that help is available for anyone affected by sexual or domestic violence in DeKalb County. Safe Passage, the local domestic violence and sexual assault crisis center, operates a 24-hour crisis line, offers advocacy and provides counseling services. The organization lists its crisis line as 815-756-5228 and outlines services on its website. Local reporting has highlighted Safe Passage’s role in recent survivor-focused events in DeKalb. For more information, visit Safe Passage and Shaw Local.
