Charlottesville, VA – A Maryland man has been charged with multiple felonies following a months-long investigation into an alleged sexual assault involving a dating app encounter.
The suspect was accused of using a false name to meet the victim in Albemarle County under the guise of helping purchase a vehicle.
Investigators said the man is now being held without bond at the Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail.
According to the Albemarle County Police Department, the victim reported in September that an individual using the alias “Wayne Washington” had sexually assaulted them after traveling to the Charlottesville area to meet in person.
Detectives later determined that the name provided to the victim was fraudulent and identified the suspect as Shane R. Driscoll, 32, of Baltimore, Maryland.
Indictment on multiple felony charges
Driscoll was taken into custody last week and indicted on December 1 by an Albemarle County grand jury. He faces three felony charges, including rape under §18.2-61, abduction with the intent to defile under §18.2-48, and communicating a threat in writing under §18.2-60(a)(1).
Authorities said Driscoll was apprehended without incident and remains in custody pending court proceedings.
Investigation and public safety reminder
Police said the case stemmed from a report received earlier this year and involved extensive investigative work to confirm the suspect’s identity and secure indictments.
The Albemarle County Police Department reminded the public to exercise caution when meeting individuals through online platforms and to report any suspicious behavior immediately.
Driscoll remains held without bond as the investigation continues under the supervision of the Albemarle County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.
