The Search for Eric Latroy Brown Comes to an End
The search for Eric Latroy Brown, 40, who was wanted for a sexual assault at the University of Houston, has finally come to an end. Authorities tracked him down after he spent 10 days on the run, and he has been booked into the Harris County Jail on charges of aggravated sexual assault and aggravated robbery.
The Arrest
The U.S. Marshals Service told KPRC 2’s Bryce Newberry that Brown was arrested by METRO police after being spotted aboard a train around 2:50 p.m. The arrest happened in the area of Texas St. and St. Emanuel St. in the East Downtown neighborhood near Shell Energy Stadium.
Timeline: The Attacks, the Mistakes, the Search, and Eric Brown’s Arrest
According to METRO police, while monitoring surveillance cameras on Tuesday afternoon, officers noticed a man walking along the light rail tracks who matched the description of the University of Houston sexual assault suspect. Earlier in the day, investigators said they believed Brown was homeless and had been riding the rail and frequenting libraries since the attack. They asked for tips from the public to find him.
The Disturbing Incident
Brown’s arrest follows a disturbing incident at UH’s Welcome Center Parking Garage. UH police say he approached a 21-year-old student, forced her into her car, and sexually assaulted her at knifepoint. He then took off with $30 and her mail, according to court records.
Mistakes and Apologies
Brown was initially arrested after UHPD officers found him acting erratically near the same parking garage about six hours after the incident. He became aggressive during the arrest and had to be tased before being taken into custody, according to records, on charges of assaulting a peace officer and resisting arrest. However, Brown was mistakenly released from jail less than 24 hours after the attack on Feb. 8, and charges in the sexual assault didn’t get filed until Wednesday, Feb. 12. Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare apologized for the mistakes made in the handling of the case, promising to make changes to ensure the error didn’t happen again.
The Search Continues
For over a week, Brown was on the run, which led to a joint press conference with Teare, Crime Stoppers of Houston, and UH Police Chief Ceaser Moore about five hours before Brown was captured. During the press conference, Crime Stoppers’ Andy Kahan publicized a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Brown. It’s unclear if anyone will be eligible for that reward money. Brown’s bond has not been set, and his first court appearance hasn’t yet been scheduled.
UH Statement
UH officials released the following statement regarding the arrest:
"Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,
Eric Brown, the suspect in the Feb. 7 sexual assault of a University of Houston student at the Welcome Center Parking Garage, was arrested at 3 p.m. this afternoon near the intersection of Texas Ave. and St. Emanuel St. east of downtown Houston. Brown was riding the METROrail when a civilian recognized him and alerted authorities.
Brown’s arrest is a critical step toward justice for the victim and the safety on our campus. This morning, UH Police, the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, and Crime Stoppers of Houston announced a $5,000 reward for his arrest. We commend the coordinated efforts of law enforcement across the region and the alert bystander for their actions in bringing him into custody.
Stay Vigilant and Utilize Resources
While this arrest provides some relief, our work to enhance campus security continues. We have increased police presence, expanded security patrols, and strengthened partnerships with local law enforcement to ensure a secure environment for our campus community. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant, stay aware of your surroundings, and report suspicious activity to UHPD at (713) 743-3333.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened in the case of Eric Latroy Brown?
A: Brown was arrested for a sexual assault at the University of Houston’s Welcome Center Parking Garage.
Q: What was the timeline of events?
A: Brown was arrested initially on Feb. 8, but was mistakenly released less than 24 hours later. Charges were filed on Feb. 12, and he was arrested again on Feb. 18.
Q: What was the reward amount for information leading to his arrest?
A: A $5,000 reward was offered for information leading to Brown’s arrest. It’s unclear if anyone will be eligible for the reward.
Q: What is the current status of Brown’s case?
A: Brown’s bond has not been set, and his first court appearance hasn’t yet been scheduled.
