By A woman’s faithful companion came to her rescue when a man attempted to sexually assault her in a Colorado park. The woman’s dog bit the attacker’s face, helping her escape the harrowing situation, according to the Fort Collins Police.
The incident occurred on May 7 at Lee Martinez Park in Fort Collins, Colorado. The woman called 911, crying and pleading for the man to get off of her. The Fort Collins Police Services shared on their Facebook page that the woman “fought him off for 20 minutes to prevent a sexual assault, aided by her dog who bit the male in the face.”
The Dispatch Emergency Call Center was able to pinpoint the woman’s location, and when police arrived at the scene, she reported that the man, who had been walking behind her, had attempted to assault her.
Police took the suspect, identified as Seth Estabrooks, 39, into custody. Estabrooks, described as a “transient” man from Boulder, had no prior relationship with the woman. He was treated for the dog bites at UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital before being processed by the authorities.
Estabrooks now faces several felony charges, including:
1. 2nd Degree Assault Strangulation – Class 4 Felony
2. Unlawful Sexual Contact with Force or Threat – Class 4 Felony
3. False imprisonment by Force – Class 5 Felony
The Fort Collins Police Services emphasized in their Facebook post that “All charges are merely an accusation by law enforcement. The suspect must be presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.”
This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the strong bond between humans and their canine companions. The woman’s dog, acting as her protector, played a crucial role in preventing a potentially life-altering assault. The brave actions of both the woman and her dog highlight the importance of self-defense and the invaluable support that pets can provide in times of crisis.
As the case against Estabrooks progresses through the legal system, the woman and her dog will undoubtedly be recognized for their courage and resilience in the face of a terrifying situation. This story also underscores the need for continued efforts to combat sexual violence and support survivors, while celebrating the remarkable ways in which our furry friends can make a difference in our lives.
