ChicagoRiver Forest, Illinois

Kenneth Merrills Sword Assault: Police Say Man Used Sword In Beating And Sexual Assault

Man Uses Sword In Sexual Assault And Beating Attack
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Police have charged a 20-year-old man with allegedly beating and sexually assaulting an acquaintance in her Chicagoland home with a sword.

A 43-year-old woman called River Forest police early Thursday to report “acquaintance” Kenneth W. Merrills was still inside her home, armed with a sword that he used to assault her, the Tribune reports.

Citing a press release from police, the Sun-Times reports Merrills allegedly used the sword to beat, sexually assault and restrain the victim late Wednesday and early Thursday.

“We applaud the courage of the victim to call 911, especially after such a violent attack,” Deputy Chief James O’Shea said according to Oak Park Patch.

Merrills was taken into custody after police forced their way into the victim's Lake Street home in suburban River Forest. The victim was treated and released for "non-life-threatening injuries,"

The Associated Press reports Merrills has been charged with aggravated criminal sexual assault and unlawful restraint and is being held on $15,000 bond.

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