Leader Staff
A 42-year-old man suspected of beating and sexually assaulting a woman Friday tried to make his way out of town in a stolen car, the Shawano Police Department said.
He was later taken into custody just outside the city on eastbound state Highway 29 by Shawano County sheriff’s deputies. He faces possible charges of substantial battery, sexual assault and operating a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent.
Police said the suspect is a homeless male who was staying with two other people at the Shawano address where the incident occurred.
Police responded shortly after 4 p.m. Friday to a report of a 45-year-old Keshena woman having been badly beaten in the 100 block of Prairie Street. The suspect had already left.
Shortly after 5 p.m., police received a report of a vehicle stolen at the People’s Express South, 716 S. Main St.
The victim in that incident said he was approached by a man who asked for a cigarette. He told the man he was out and was going into the convenience store to buy a pack. He left his vehicle running and unlocked, according to police.
When he came out of the store, he saw his vehicle being driven southbound on Main Street.
A criminal complaint and initial court appearance were expected Monday afternoon.