BUFFALO, N.Y. – In a significant development, the Buffalo Police Department apprehended a suspect on Tuesday, December 26, in connection with a distressing sexual assault case that was reported earlier this month.

According to law enforcement authorities, a 28-year-old man allegedly approached a woman on December 9 at around 1:00 a.m. The incident occurred on the 1900 block of Hertel Avenue, Buffalo.

The harrowing ordeal unfolded when the suspect, identified as Rickey Roberts, reportedly threatened the victim, claiming to possess a firearm, before forcibly assaulting her. The victim, displaying immense courage and resilience, managed to escape from the assailant’s clutches and sought immediate help.

The traumatized victim was promptly transported to Kenmore Mercy Hospital by ambulance, where she received medical treatment and was subsequently released. It is important to note that the victim had no prior acquaintance with the perpetrator, making the incident even more distressing.

Upon receiving the report, the Buffalo Police Special Victim’s Unit swiftly initiated a thorough investigation, collaborating closely with the Erie County District Attorney’s Special Victim Bureau. Their relentless efforts bore fruit, as they successfully identified and apprehended the suspect within 48 hours of the incident being reported.

The suspect, Rickey Roberts, now faces serious charges, including one count of first-degree rape and one count of first-degree criminal sexual act.