Florence man accused of attempting to sexually assault and strangle victim

FLORENCE COUNTY, SC (WMBF) – Investigators said a Florence man attempted to sexually assault someone while armed with a gun.

The Florence County Sheriff’s Office arrested 36-year-old Howard Washington on Wednesday. He is charged with attempted murder, assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and theft of financial transaction cards.

Officers were called to South Jeffords Street around 3 a.m. Wednesday, May 1, for an assault.

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An investigation revealed that Washington, while armed, attempted to sexually assault a victim and then attempted to strangulate the person by strangling him. This caused the victim to lose consciousness.

Washington is also accused of stealing the victim’s debit card and withdrawing money from his account.

He is being held without bail at the Florence County Detention Center.

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