BLOOMINGTON — A Tuesday afternoon at a building near North College Avenue turned into a terrifying ordeal for a local woman, leading to the arrest of a suspect now facing multiple felony charges.
The Bloomington Police Department (BPD) responded to an assault call after a woman reported being attacked inside an elevator. According to the victim, she was on the third floor, heading down to the lobby, when she encountered a man with a distinct neck tattoo.
The victim stated that the suspect, later identified as 41-year-old Charles Hughes Jr., asked if she was getting off at that floor. When she replied that she was continuing to the first floor, Hughes reportedly stepped inside the elevator with her.
As the doors closed, the situation turned violent. BPD reports that Hughes turned toward the woman, grabbed her by the throat, and used his other hand to grope her. The victim told officers she “fought back quickly,” successfully pushing Hughes off her just as the elevator reached the first floor and the doors opened.
Hughes allegedly fled the scene immediately, disappearing into an alleyway behind the building.
While officers were taking the victim’s statement, dispatchers broadcast a description of the suspect. Within a short window, police located a man matching the description, including the specific neck tattoo nearby.
Witnesses at the scene and the victim identified Hughes as the primary suspect. He was taken into custody without further incident and transported to the Monroe County Jail.
Hughes is currently facing the following preliminary charges: sexual battery, a Level 6 felony; attempted strangulation, a Level 6 felony; and battery, a Class B misdemeanor.
Records indicate that Hughes is currently being held without bond. A court hearing is scheduled for Monday, March 30, at which a judge will review the preliminary charges and determine whether bond will be set.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent until proven guilty through a fair and due legal process. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
Safety in Public Elevators
Following the incident, local safety advocates recommend being mindful of your surroundings in confined public spaces:
- Trust Your Instincts: If a situation or person feels “off,” wait for the next elevator.
- Stand Near the Controls: Position yourself near the buttons so you can hit the “Alarm” or “Door Open” button if needed.
- Stay Aware: Avoid looking down at your phone while entering or riding in an elevator with strangers.
