Introduction to the Case
A grand jury has indicted a 40-year-old man, Eric Latroy Brown, on charges related to the sexual assault of a University of Houston student. The indictment includes two counts of aggravated sexual assault and one count of aggravated robbery. This development comes after a lengthy investigation and a 10-day manhunt for Brown.
The Incident
The attack occurred on February 7 at the University of Houston’s Welcome Center Parking Garage. Brown, who is believed to have been homeless at the time, approached a 21-year-old student, forced her into her vehicle at knifepoint, and then sexually assaulted her. Following the assault, Brown took $30 and the student’s mail before fleeing the scene.
Arrest and Release
Initially, Brown was arrested by University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) officers about six hours after the incident, when they found him acting erratically near the same parking garage. During the arrest, Brown became aggressive and had to be tased before being taken into custody on charges of assaulting a peace officer and resisting arrest. However, he was mistakenly released from jail less than 24 hours after the attack, on February 8.
Investigation and Re-arrest
The charges for the sexual assault were not filed until February 12. An investigation into the handling of the case revealed mistakes, including issues with paperwork submitted by police and a breakdown in communication between the Harris County District Attorney’s office and the officers involved. Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare acknowledged these errors and pledged to implement changes to prevent such mistakes from happening again. Brown was eventually re-arrested after being spotted riding a METRORail, ending the 10-day manhunt.
Current Status
Brown is currently in jail with a $15 million bond. The federal indictment is a significant step in the case, ensuring that Brown will face trial for the serious crimes he is accused of committing. The community and the University of Houston are awaiting the outcome of the trial, hoping for justice for the victim.
Conclusion
The case of Eric Latroy Brown highlights the importance of meticulous handling of criminal cases and the severe consequences of mistakes within the justice system. It also underscores the need for vigilance and swift action in cases of violent crime, particularly those involving sexual assault. As the case progresses, it will be crucial to ensure that justice is served, not only for the victim but also to reinforce trust in the system’s ability to protect and serve the community.
