Multiple sex crimes unrelated

Four people reported sex offenses within a four-day span, but Federal Way police say the incidents are not linked.

On Nov. 3 two rapes occurred within two hours of each other in the 28400 block of Military Road South. The first was at 9:33 a.m. and the second at 11:07 a.m.

Police also reported a rape at 1:23 p.m. on Nov. 2, but did not disclose the incident address. A fourth sex offense occurred on Oct. 31, but again, no specific location given by police.

“We don’t believe them to be linked in any way,” said Crime Prevention Officer Kurt Schwan.

When asked if the two rapes within a half an hour of each other on the same block were linked, Schwan said “We still don’t believe so,” based on statements from witnesses.

When asked if three rapes in two days was an unusual number for that period of time, Schwan said, “There’s nothing usual about crimes. I wouldn’t say it’s higher or normal compared to usual.”

Schwan did not know if the victims were of similar age or sex. He could not say if the police had any suspects.

“The cases have been forwarded to the detectives,” Schwan said.

Last month, police responded to a rape in the 1700 block of Southwest 349th Place on Oct. 9 and a sex offense in the 32300 block of 23rd Avenue on Oct. 8. Also on Oct. 8, a female was grabbed from behind by an unknown male suspect in the 2800 block of Southwest 320th Street. The victim fought off the suspect by punching him in the face, and he ran away, according to police reports. On Oct 11, police responded to a lewd conduct complaint in the 1600 block of Southwest 311th Street.

Schwan advised concerned people to be aware of surroundings, keep an eye out for escape avenues, and be ready to defend themselves.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.