POLICE Department

Suspect Charged, Wanted in Sex Assault of Child


December 6, 2016 - Houston police are asking for the public’s help in locating a suspect charged in the sexual assault of an 11-year-old girl on October 16.

The suspect, Joseph Anderson, 40, is charged with two counts of Indecency with a Child in the 337th State District Court.  A photo of Anderson is attached to this news release.

HPD Special Victims Division Officer L. Donovan reported:

The suspect, Anderson, was a friend of the victim’s mother.  On October 16, he was with the girl at the Children’s Museum of Houston at 1500 Binz Street.  Once there, Anderson took her to the second floor where he sexually assaulted her.  The child knew Anderson prior to them being at the museum together, as is the case in a majority of child sexual assault cases.  Two individuals witnessed the assault and immediately notified museum staff for help.  The victim was taken to a private room where she reported the sexual assault.

Museum authorities took immediate action once the incident was reported to them; however, Anderson had immediately fled before a search of the facility was completed.  Museum officials have cooperated fully with investigators from the moment the incident was reported. 

Further investigation led to the positive identification of Anderson as the suspect in this case.  On Monday (December 5), two warrants were issued for his arrest.  At this time, he remains at large.

During the course of the investigation, it was determined additional victims may have been sexually assaulted by Anderson at different locations.  Anyone who believes his/her child may have had inappropriate contact with Anderson is urged to contact the HPD Special Victims Division at 713-308-1140 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.


suspect
suspect Joseph Anderson

KJS/JFC 12-6-16
Inc. #132402316




For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.