Authorities apprehend man wanted for attempted rape

Gaspar Perez-Bartolo

Authorities have apprehended a man who allegedly broke into a Russellville residence early Friday and attempted to rape a 12-year-old girl.

According to Russellville Police Chief Chris Hargett, police arrested Gaspar Perez-Bartolo, 26, 402 Sockwell Ave., Apt. 1, Russellville, just shortly before 6 p.m. Friday for second-degree burglary and attempted first-degree rape.

Hargett said Perez-Bartolo is accused of breaking into a residence in the 300 block of Tuscaloosa Street in Russellville about 12:30 a.m. Friday.

Police investigator Lt. Scotty Lowery said the suspect made entry into the home through a window that led into the 12-year-old female’s room.

Once inside the room, Lowery said the suspect held the girl down, covered her mouth and demanded she undress.

Lowery said the mother of the child heard the commotion inside the room and began beating on the door, which caused the suspect to flee the residence through the same window he entered.

Hargett said police had been unable to locate Perez-Bartolo, and as of Friday afternoon, he was believed to be on Interstate 65 southbound near Montgomery.

However, Hargett said investigators received a call after 5 p.m. Friday stating a vehicle matching the description of Perez-Bartolo’s car had been spotted at Sloss Lake in Russellville.

Lowery said officers were able to locate Perez-Bartolo inside the vehicle and took him into custody without incident.

“We appreciate everyone working together to make sure this suspect was taken into custody,” Hargett said.

“I’m sure the community will rest a little easier knowing he’s off the street.”

Perez-Bartolo is currently in custody at the Russellville City Jail without bond at this time.