A Florence man is accused of attempted murder and sexual assault, deputies say

FLORENCE COUNTY, SC (WBTW) – A Florence man is accused of attempting to sexually assault a victim, strangling the victim, stealing the victim’s credit card and withdrawing money, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office said.

Howard Washington, 36, was arrested Wednesday and charged with attempted murder, assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime and theft of bank cards.

Around 3 a.m. May 1, Florence County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to South Jeffords Street for an assault without anyone on scene, officials said.

Investigators say Washington, while armed with a handgun, attempted to commit a sexual assault on the victim and attempted to murder the victim by strangling him, causing the victim to lose consciousness, officials said.

Washington also allegedly stole the victim’s credit card and later withdrew money from the account. Online records show Washington is being held without bail at the Florence County Sheriff’s Office.