By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
A Georgia man has been arrested after police say he assaulted a woman and attempted to force her into her vehicle in a Dothan parking lot last week.
According to the Dothan Police Department, officers responded May 1 to a business in the 3300 block of South Oates Street following reports of an assault.
Investigators said the victim told officers she noticed a man she did not know following her as she walked to her vehicle. When she reached her vehicle, the suspect allegedly attempted to force her inside.
Police said the victim called out for help, prompting a bystander to come to her aid. The suspect then reportedly fled the scene on foot.
Law enforcement officers quickly located and made contact with the suspect, identified as Traveyon De’Vante Wilcox, 40, of Jakin, Georgia. During the encounter, police said Wilcox attempted to run from officers but was quickly apprehended.
Wilcox was arrested and charged with first-degree attempted kidnapping, first-degree attempted theft of property, third-degree assault, obstruction of government operations, resisting arrest, and attempting to elude a law enforcement officer.
He was booked into the Houston County Jail, where he is being held without bond.
The Dothan Police Department also praised the bystander who stepped in to assist the victim during the incident.
“The quick and brave actions of this individual are to be commended,” Chief William E. Benny said.
