MSP Fugitive Unit Captures Man Wanted for Aggravated Rape, Kidnapping, and Assault

The Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section (MSP VFAS) this morning located and arrested a Lawrence man wanted for raping a woman while holding her against her will with a meat cleaver yesterday in Danvers.

MSP VFAS Troopers arrested RENE MONTES, 55, this morning at location in Methuen. He was transported to a State Police facility for booking.

The investigation into the incident began at approximately 7:45 AM Wednesday, December 20, 2023 when the victim, who is an adult, came to the State Police-Danvers Barracks to report she had been assaulted and raped in her residence while being held against her will by the suspect, who was brandishing a meat cleaver.  The victim was transported to a hospital for treatment of injuries. Troopers subsequently processed the crime scene and recovered various types of evidence, including a meat cleaver.

The investigation led to the identification of MONTES as the assailant and Troopers obtained a warrant charging him with Aggravated Rape, Aggravated Kidnapping, and Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon.

MSP VFAS Troopers began working to locate him on Wednesday and this morning took him into custody at a residence in Methuen. We have not yet confirmed whether MONTES will be arraigned today. State Police Media Relations will update on his bail/arraignment status when more information is available.

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