Police arrest suspect for attempted sexual assault at West Ashley gym

FILE – A police car with flashing lights is pictured in Philadelphia, Monday, Jan. 17, 2022. Police departments reported an increase in the number of sworn officers in 2023 compared to the previous year for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began and since the police killing of George Floyd in 2020 sparked nationwide protests and increased scrutiny of police, according to a survey released by the Police Executive Research Forum. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)

CHARLESTON, SC (WCBD) – Charleston Police have arrested a man accused of attempting to sexually assault a person at a West Ashley fitness center.

Richard Isiah Whitney, 25, of Charleston was arrested and charged with assault with intent to commit a sex offense.

Sergeant Chris Stinson said Whitney followed the victim into a private area at the West Ashley Planet Fitness on Sam Rittenberg Boulevard on July 24.

Whitney then grabbed the victim and attempted to sexually assault her, but the victim was able to break free and escape.

Whitney was arrested on Saturday and booked into the Al Cannon Detention Center. He has since been released from jail on $5,000 bail.

Charleston Police say the investigation into this incident is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to call the on-duty Criminal Investigation Division at 843-720-2422.