Victim on Mackinac Island forced to ground, sexually assaulted while walking at night

MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. (WBUP/WJMN) — A woman walking alone at night on September 16 was forced to the ground and sexually assaulted, according to police. 

According to a news release from the Mackinac Island Police Department, Mackinac Island Police Officers responded to a report of a sexual assault at approximately 2:15 a.m. on September 16, in the area of Main Street, east of Hoban Street.

It was reported that the victim was walking alone when she was forced to the ground and assaulted. The male suspect then fled the scene on foot. The victim was taken to the Mackinac Island Medical Center for treatment. 

Later in the day, officers identified a suspect, and he was arrested and lodged at the Mackinac County Jail pending review of charges by the Mackinac County Prosecutor’s Office and arraignment.

Mackinac Island Police Department has identified the suspect as Carlos Adrian Fernandez de Lara Jaimez, a 30-year-old male from Mexico. 

On September 18, the Mackinac County Prosecutor’s Office charged Fernandez with Criminal Sexual Conduct – 2nd Degree with Personal Injury. He was arraigned in 92nd District Court by the Hon. Beth Gibson, and his bond was set at $100,000 cash/surety. Fernandez remains lodged in the Mackinac County Jail. 

Mackinac Island Police were assisted by Mackinac Island EMS, the Mackinac Island Medical Center, Mackinac Island Marine Rescue, the Michigan State Police – St. Ignace Post, the Mackinac County Sheriff’s Office, and the Mackinac Island community. 

The Mackinac Island Police Department would like to remind everyone of safety tips when walking at night:

• Try and walk with someone else
• Try to walk in well-lit areas
• Attempt to wear bright clothing
• Be alert and aware of your surroundings

• Attempt to have a fully charged cellphone and share your location with friends and family
• As you’re walking, think of populated areas you can reach in case of an emergency
• If you feel unsafe as someone walks near you, cross the street or change the direction of your travel
• Let someone know where you are headed and when you arrive at your destination 

• Try to talk with someone on the phone during your trip if you have to walk alone