LCPD: Man raped elderly woman after victim declined yard work help

Police officers arrested a man accused of sexually assaulting an elderly woman and holding her against her will Friday.

Ruben Gonzalez, 57, of the 1400 block of Wade Street, is charged with a first-degree felony count of kidnapping and a second-degree felony count of criminal sexual penetration.

Police said the woman, 72, was working in her own backyard when Gonzalez, who lives in the same neighborhood, approached her and offered his assistance.

The woman refused, police said, and entered her home. Gonzalez allegedly followed her inside and “forcefully held her against her will” as he raped her, police said.

The woman escaped and ran out the front door where she sought help.

Investigators arrested Gonzalez and booked him into the Dona Ana County Detention Center. He is being held without bond.