Photo: San Bernardino Police Department
Police in Southern California have apprehended a suspect they say is linked to multiple burglaries and at least one sexual assault.
After a burglar was caught on video watching a couple sleeping in February, the San Bernardino Police Department (SBPD) released the suspect’s identity on Thursday, as he has since been connected to a rape from earlier that month, according to an SBPDnews release.
The couple later realized, they claim, that he broke in through their 3-year-old son’s window, when they noticed the screen was removed. Luckily, their son wasn’t sleeping in his room that night.
“Even though he’s in custody right now … I know it’s hard for her to sleep. Things have been a little different,” the victim, Kevin Sandoval, told KTLA, adding: “I feel violated and I feel like I let my family down. I’m supposed to be the provider and protector.”
Kevin’s wife Rachel Sandoval toldKNBCshe’s “glad he’s caught,” adding: “Who knows how many other people he’s done it too?”
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“I get it. You want to break into somebody’s house you need money for whatever,” Rachel toldKSLAin April. “But why are you standing there staring at us, what?”
SBPD previously withheld Cifuentes' identity at the time because he was “suspected of committing additional crimes” under investigation in the area, per the news release.
Other evidence found during a search warrant conducted on his residence connected him to both crimes, according to police.
Cifuentes has been charged with one count of rape, one count of assault with intent to commit rape and two counts of burglary, and faces life in prison if convicted of all charges.
SBPD is also asking other potential victims to come forward.
It is unclear if Cifuentes has obtained legal representation to comment on his behalf.
source: people.com
