NEW YORK (KRON) — The US Marshals are asking for help in finding an accused rapist with ties to California.
Michael Hawkins is accused of sexually assaulting a wheelchair-bound victim in Schenectady, New York in June 2012.
Then, a year later, he allegedly assaulted another woman at a friend’s family gathering. He allegedly raped the victim in her apartment after her family went to bed, the US Marshals said.
“Predators like Michael Hawkins who prey on helpless victims must be brought to justice,” said U.S. Marshal David McNulty of the Northern District of New York. “We, along with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, are determined to make sure he’s held accountable, but we need the public’s help.”
Hawkins has been charged with first-degree aggravated sex abuse.
Hawkins is nicknamed “Zombie Mike” by his friends for having poor hygiene. He is described as someone who can hide anywhere, including wooded areas.
He is 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs about 160 pounds, authorities said. He is a white man, with brown hair and brown eyes.
“His unique physical characteristics include a 1 ½ inch scar on his face, a burn mark scar on his right arm, and a chest tattoo of the Grim Reaper. According to friends, he is known to have a temper and abuse alcohol,” the U.S. Marshals Service said.
There is a $5,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.
“The Schenectady and Rotterdam Police departments, along with the Marshals, have dedicated countless man-hours during this fugitive investigation,” McNulty said. “With the public’s help, we are confident Hawkins will be arrested.”