Miami Manhunt Continues for 'Shenandoah Rapist'

A massive manhunt continues for Miami's suspected "Shenandoah Rapist," suspected of committing seven rapes and attempting at least four others, who escaped from a maximum security correctional center Tuesday night.

Considered armed and dangerous, Reynaldo Elias Rapalo, 34, escaped from Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center by climbing through a ceiling vent in his sixth-floor cell and using bed sheets to get to the ground.

Officials believe the escape was months in the planning and that Rapalo had outside help. A second inmate who attempted to escape with him was found in a second-floor window with two broken ankles.

DNA evidence has linked Rapalo to seven rapes and four attempted attacks on women ranging in ages from 11 to 79 since September 2003, but authorities believe there may be many more victims, because Rapalo's targets may have been illegal aliens who are less likely to report the attack to police.

"We fully realize he represents the worst kind of threat possible," said Miami-Dade Police Director Robert Parker. Anyone with information is asked to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers, 305-471-TIPS.

See Also:
'Shenandoah Rape' Suspect Escapes in Fla.

More Information:
Rape and Sexual Assault

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