Ashburn jailed for attempted rape
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The suspect, Bobby Jewel Ashburn, 32, is charged with attempted rape, attempted aggravated burglary and two counts of aggravated burglary. He remains held at Warren County Jail under $300,000 bond.
The charges come after Ashburn allegedly tried to break into three homes Monday on Wash Roberts Road. According to Sheriff Jackie Matheny, Ashburn entered the first home through an unlocked door, prompting the people inside to take cover in their home and call 911 to report the intruder. Ashburn then left the home and went to another nearby dwelling where he attempted to gain entry, but was met by a locked door.
The third residence, however, saw Ashburn force his way into the home where he encountered the female resident. At that point, Sheriff Matheny said Ashburn tried to rape the woman but was interrupted when the woman’s son got off the school bus. The man then grabbed a knife from the dishwasher and fled out the door.
He was taken into custody by deputies following a short chase on the mountain.
The reasons for Ashburn’s spree are unclear aside from suspicions he may have been under the influence of drugs. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to 14 years in the state penitentiary. Being under the influence of drugs is seldom a successful defense in criminal cases.