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Understanding the Incident
In a harrowing incident that has shocked the community, a Florida man named David Earl Gipson, 40, was arrested after a woman he allegedly assaulted managed to escape from a storage container where she was being held.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported that the victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was found in a severely beaten state, requiring immediate medical attention.
The Allegations Against Gipson
According to law enforcement, Gipson is facing serious charges, including sexual battery, aggravated battery, and false imprisonment.
The victim recounted a terrifying ordeal where Gipson visited her home, quickly became violent, and began to physically assault her. Reports indicate that he bound and gagged her while threatening her life, using both a handgun and a blunt object during the assault.
In a chilling account, Sheriff Kevin Crews described the victim’s condition when she was found: “She was naked, still handcuffed, and had duct tape around her mouth.” Gipson allegedly transported her to his residence using her mother-in-law’s vehicle, where the abuse continued.
The victim was ultimately placed in a storage container in the yard, a situation that could have ended tragically.
The Victim’s Brave Escape
In a remarkable display of resilience, the victim managed to free herself after loosening her legs and kicking her way out of the plywood enclosure.
Sheriff Crews detailed her escape, stating, “She got out of the shed and then ran for her life.” Once free, she used a tree to remove the duct tape from her mouth and made her way to the roadside, where a passerby noticed her distress and called 911.
Tragic Loss and Ongoing Investigation
In a tragic twist, the investigation revealed that another victim, 74-year-old Lettie Cooper Collins, was found dead in her home, having suffered severe injuries. Authorities are now pursuing murder charges against Gipson in connection with Collins’ death, adding to the gravity of the situation. The sheriff’s office has noted that Gipson has a lengthy criminal history, with approximately 33 felony charges dating back to 1999, including multiple counts of burglary and arson.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this horrific event, Sheriff Crews expressed gratitude for the support received during the investigation and emphasized the importance of community vigilance in preventing such incidents. The case remains active as authorities continue to gather evidence and seek justice for the victims involved.
