A Georgia man is accused of breaking through an apartment wall to get to a teenage girl, allegedly attacking her and threatening to rape her as two young children watched in horror, according to police reports.
Obed Reyes, 29, reportedly smashed a hole in the sheetrock connecting his closet to a neighborâs unit at a Gainesville apartment complex on August 5, Gainesville Police said.
Once inside, authorities claim Reyes grabbed the 15-year-old victim, punched her multiple times, and made threats to sexually assault her. The teen fought back bravely, managing to escape onto the buildingâs breezeway, where her screams drew attention.
Witnesses called 911 as the suspect allegedly dragged the girl by her hair. Officers arrived just before 10 p. m.
, spotted the ongoing struggle, and pulled Reyes off the victim before taking him into custody.
Police photos show a large hole left in the wall between the two apartments. The teen was in the room with two younger relatives, ages 5 and 7, at the time of the attack.
Reyes, who reportedly lives in the same complex, now faces charges including burglary, aggravated assault, attempted rape, kidnapping, and two counts of cruelty to children. An immigration charge was also added, though his status remains unclear.
âI commend the witnessesâ quick response of calling 911 to get our officers there in time to prevent further torment and trauma of the victim,â Gainesville Police Chief Jay Parrish said in a statement. He added that the victim has a long road to recovery and urged community support.
Reyes is being held without bond at the Hall County Jail, according to court records.
What could drive someone to such a violent act against a neighbor?
