BSO: Man Who Preyed On School Girls Under Arrest
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FORT LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami) – The Broward Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of a man they say is a rapist who preyed on girls as they walked to school.
BSO spokeswoman Keyla Concepcion told CBS4's Peter D'Oench that Kevin Smith was arrested after an exhaustive investigation and surveillance. She added detectives were gratified that this suspect is behind bars.
"This is every parent's worst nightmare," she said.
Concepcion said Smith was "very brazen and bold" and said he might have continued his attacks if he was not arrested.
He appeared in court Wednesday after being arrested on Tuesday for sexual assault and two counts of kidnapping. He was arrested in Lauderdale Lakes near the scene of the reported attacks. Deputies believe he may have been looking for his next victim.
Investigators said Smith grabbed a girl as she walked to school the morning of February 24th forcing her into a car at knifepoint. She was then sexually assaulted, deputies said. After the assault, Smith allegedly told the victim to get out of the car and not look back.
BSO said he tried to do it again a second time Monday morning. That victim fought back and was able to run away and give deputies a description of the man and his car. With that information, investigators came up with a description of the suspect and his vehicle, leading to Smith's arrest near NW 41st Street and NW 31st Avenue.
In both instances, investigators said a knife was used.
Kenitha Watson, a mom of four, shuddered at the thought of an accused rapist roaming her neighborhood.
"I always tell my kids to be safe every day," she said.
Smith is being held without bond.
"They shouldn't let him out in the first place. He shouldn't be out he shouldn't be on the streets. He shouldn't be on the streets," said Gifford Henry.
Henry, who lives in the area, is speaking of Smith's long rap sheet, which includes time in prison for violent crimes.
Deputies say this is Smith's ninth arrest since 2000.
"I don't want him in here. A lot of young kids around here young girls right here I don't want him in here," Henry said.
Authorities are now asking anyone who recognizes him to come forward because there may be more possible victims. Anyone with information is urged to call Broward County Crime Stoppers at (954) 493-TIPS.
