Man charged with rape and sexual assault after two attacks overnight in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Philadelphia police say a man has been charged with rape and sexual assault following two separate attacks overnight.

Investigators say a stolen cell phone led to the arrest of suspect Abdul Ford.

In both cases, police said the victim was grabbed from behind while walking and then sexually assaulted.

The first attack happened around 10:50 p.m. Sunday in the 1600 block of Point Breeze Boulevard in the Grays Ferry section.

The second attack occurred around 1:30 a.m. Monday in the 2000 block of Wharton Street in the Point Breeze section.

Both victims managed to escape.

Police said Ford stole the second victim’s cellphone and officers were able to track him to the 1300 block of S. 22nd Street, where he was arrested.