UPDATED: Suspect Arrested For Sexual Assault On Davis Church Property
DAVIS (CBS13) - A Davis church was the scene of an alleged robbery and rape. Investigators say the suspect chose his victim on sacred property in broad daylight.
Davis police arrested 25-year-old Christopher Turk, a transient, Monday afternoon at a West Davis shopping center in connection to the alleged crime. During a search, evidence connecting him to the incident was recovered.
It is a holy place for many to find peace; but for one woman, it was the site of terror.
"It happening on church grounds is really disturbing," resident Stephanie Guercio said.
Officers say Saturday morning, around 11 a.m., a woman was walking on the grounds of Davis Community Church at 412 C St. when she was attacked.
"I think this is a very bold and brazen move from the suspect," said Davis Police Department Lt. Glenn Glasgow.
It's bold and brazen because the Davis Farmer's Market was happening just across the street.
"It kind of shocks me that it can happen in the middle of the day, on a morning when there's so many people around," resident Tania Hammidi said.
"Through the investigation, we determined that the area in which the assault occurred was secluded from public view," said Glasgow.
Officers say the suspect would use a sharp object to threaten the victim, rape her, and then rob her of items like her cell phone.
"It does make me want to be more aware as a female in Davis. Usually I am, but I do feel like it's safe place," said Guercio.
The church's pastor did not want to speak on camera, but said the incident had nothing to do with any church activities. However, members of the church hadn't been notified until Sunday afternoon.
"We always caution people to be vigilant about their surroundings," said Glasgow.
Knowing someone is out there, who used a place of God as a place for crime, has many feeling uneasy.
"I do hope that he gets caught, because it's just really sad and disturbing," said Guercio.
Turk was booked at Yolo County Jail for sexual assault, robbery, burglary, false imprisonment, and sexual battery.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Davis Police Department at (530) 747-5400.
