The following information has been provided by the Rockledge Police Department for your information.  Details of this crime have also been released to local media for publication.  It is another reminder as to how essential it is that neighbors work together to harden their community against criminal activity and that each of us take the necessary precautions to safeguard our homes (everyday).

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A home invasion in Rockledge just occurred at Woodhaven Apartment.  In this situation, the victim knew the individual who assaulted him.  The victim was in his home with the door locked when he heard someone at his door state that they were the police (the individual at the door was not a law enforcement officer).  The victim opened the door, but kept it on the security chain.

The individual outside the door knocked open the door and entered the apartment.  He battered the victim and, while in the apartment, he kept the victim from calling for help via his phone.  Neighbors were not aware of the home invasion until after the fact.

The Rockledge Police Department responded immediately when notified, but the individual had fled.  With the details provided, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office quickly obtain a warrant for the individual in Cape Canaveral.  He has since been arrested and is currently in custody at Sharpes.

Among the many offenses he committed, he is charged with home invasion, burglary, theft, and for preventing an individual from calling for assistance.

Additional information may be provided by local media.

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Please always make the effort to positively identify any individual at your door before opening it.  A “peep hole” installed in any door that does not have adjacent windows is an ideal safety measure to safeguard you and your home.  And when opening a door to a stranger, before doing so, ask them to step back away from the door to create a comfortable buffer between you and them, allowing you time to shut the door quickly should it be warranted.

Please be vigilant, be involved and be safe,