CHESTERFIELD, Va. -- As Attorney General Mark Herring spoke at a conference in Chester aimed at reducing sexual violence, a growing number of rape cases have been reported in Chesterfield County.
In fact, six rapes were reported in the county between April 23 and May 1 of 2015:
- April 23rd --- 9400 block Jefferson Davis
- April 24th --- 400 block Charter Colony
- April 24th --- 5700 block North Chase Ct
- April 26th --- 6400 block Pebblespring Drive
- April 28th --- 1100 block Oldbury Rd
- May 1st --- 6000 block Grinton Road
The apparent rash of rapes follows a trend chronicled in the FBI crime report for 2013. That year Chesterfield reported 74 rapes while Henrico and Richmond reported 32 and 43 respectfully. While Chesterfield does have more people than Henrico or Richmond, Chesterfield has far fewer cases of other types of violent crime, like murder.
The Chesterfield Police Department told CBS 6 reporter Joe St. George that the reported rapes should not be a concern for residents.
Captain Mike Louth said that in most of the cases the victim knew the attacker and that they are not connected.
"When someone comes in and makes a report we will always take it seriously," Louth said.
But Louth also emphasized that the department has determined two of the cases were unfounded.
"Just because someone makes a rape report doesn't mean it actually ends up being one," Louth said via phone.
Attorney General Mark Herring
When asked about the reported rapes, Attorney General Mark Herring said that education and collaboration must continue.
"I think we've made a lot of progress in understanding why it's been so difficult for many to come forward," Herring said. "Collaboration between law enforcement and organizations that are advocates for survivors can just raise awareness."
Still some residents remain concerned.
"When you see it on the news, you think crime somewhere else -- not Chester," Carolyn Spence said.
