PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – The wanted suspect in the sexual assault of a 55-year-old woman at Macy’s in Center City was taken into custody on Wednesday. Police announced the arrest of 22-year-old Jaleel Uqdah this afternoon.
UPDATE: Police have identified Jaleel Uqdah as the man responsible for the rape of a 55 year old woman in the bathroom at Market st. Macy’s. The clothes he was wearing on the day of the assault were collected from his home. More at 4 p.m. / 5 p.m. @CBSPhilly pic.twitter.com/OyTtThOBlP
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– Alecia Reid (@alecia__reid) February 24, 2021
Uqdah was arrested this morning at his home in West Philadelphia.
Police say the suspect has a very distinctive gait, which helped identify him.
Although he did not confess, authorities recovered the clothes he was wearing on the day of the assault.
Police said Uqdah entered Macy’s home on a mission on Sunday morning.
“He walked into that store at 11:11, that’s when he walked into the store. In less than three minutes he was in the bathroom, ”said Philadelphia Police Captain Mark Burgmann.
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The suspect waited more than 20 minutes in the women’s bathroom on the third floor before his victim entered. During the assault, authorities say, he threatened to stab and steal her before taking off.
“He went underground and took Market-Frankford El and got off at 52nd and Market Street, and from 52nd to Market Street he took a 52nd bus to Girard Street,” said Police Detective from Philadelphia Vincent Strain.
Additional surveillance photos released late Tuesday evening have given police advice. Particular counsel led police to his West Philadelphia home on North 53rd Street, where a search warrant gave them access.
Authorities say Uqdah was surprised when police showed up but was arrested without incident.
In this case, it took a lot of effort and help from the public, Macy’s and SEPTA to locate their suspect.
“It took a lot of work and we are very grateful for it. We always coordinate with them on these jobs, ”said Burgmann.
Police intend to compare Uqdah’s DNA to other crimes in the city.
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For this incident, he faces a range of charges including rape, aggravated assault and theft.