Police investigate similar rape cases

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) - Portsmouth police are increasing patrols in several neighborhoods and urging residents to lock doors and windows following a series of sexual assaults.

Portsmouth police say just after 10 p.m. Sunday night, a 65-year-old woman was raped in her Castle Heights home. Detectives say the woman opened her front door after hearing a noise outside and the suspect forced his way in.

This is the fourth sexual assault since May 2009 within the Churchland area of the city.

Police told WAVY.com the earlier attacks happened in Hunters Point, River Point and West Norfolk neighborhoods--all nearby Castle Heights.

"That's disgusting," says Laura Bennington and Kendel White. Both women live nearby. They have an elderly neighbor and make sure to keep a constant eye on her.

"If we're going to the grocery store do you need us to pick up anything for you? things like that," says White.

WAVY.com has learned this latest case has detectives in other cities comparing notes.

On Sunday, February 14, Virginia Beach police say an 80-year-old woman was raped in her Sale Avenue home just after 10 p.m.

In May of 2008 an elderly woman was assaulted in her home on Sherry Drive. Beach investigators believe the cases are connected due to the close proximity of the homes and matching description of the suspect.

Seniors are safest in their homes but they need to be vigilant and never open the door, says Mary Levy Director of the Center for Aging.

"Whether its curiosity or whether they want to check, don't, don't. that's what we have police for, that's what we have telephones for, you call 911."

She gave WAVY.com some other advice to share: Have guests call before they come to the house, post a large beware of dog sign even if you don't have a dog and install dusk to dawn lights on the porch. They are energy efficient and brighten the front of the home.

Police in both cities say the suspect in each case is young, anywhere from 18 to 25 years old, and each time he's worn dark clothing with a hood or a hat on his head. If you have any information you are asked to call the Crimeline at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.