Suspect in Riverwalk sexual assault arrested in Phenix City, brought to Columbus
A Columbus man wanted in a sexual assault that was reported in September, near the Columbus Civic Center, has been arrested, authorities said.
Shaquille Tyree Smith was taken into custody Wednesday in Phenix City by Russell County Police Department and extradited to the Muscogee County jail Thursday. He is charged with rape, kidnapping, aggravated sexual battery, aggravated assault, obstruction of a 911 call and terroristic threats.
On Sept. 20, an unidentified female contacted the Columbus Police Department Patrol Division and to report she had been sexually assaulted while running along the Chattahoochee Riverwalk around 7 p.m. that evening, according to a news release from CPD.
CPD’s Sex Crimes Unit responded and began the investigation. On Tuesday, police said probable cause was established, and a warrant was issued for Smith’s arrest, the release said.
Smith will have a preliminary hearing in Recorder’s Court at 9 a.m. Friday. At that time, officers will ask for a continuation in the case until 9 a.m. Oct. 12, the release said.
Although an arrest has been made, anyone having information related to this case is encouraged to contact Detective S. Wiseman at 706-225-4381 or email at SWiseman@columbusga.org. If you would like to remain anonymous, call 706-653-3188 or text VACS plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES).
