SVU Detectives Arrest Sexual Assault Suspect

Cpl. Nick Briggs, PIO


Monday, October 3, 2022 at 12:17 p.m.


SPD’s Special Victims Unit makes arrest in apparent stranger rape

On 09-26-22, an adult female notified police that she had been sexually assaulted just after 1am while walking her dog in the 100 block of E 1st Ave. She told investigators that the unknown male suspect had approached her, briefly struck up a casual conversation, and then attacked her by tackling her to the ground and raping her. During the attack the victim defended herself, apparently injuring the suspect which caused him to flee.  

Officers and detectives observed and collected evidence consistent with the victim’s statement. Investigators quickly began attempting to obtain video footage from the area and identify a suspect.

SPD’s Special Victims Unit (SVU) which specializes in the investigation of sexual assault incidents, was able to identify 18-year-old Ethan Z. Jake as a suspect. On 09-29-22, detectives with the assistance of members of the Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF), took Jake into custody without incident. A search warrant was served at his residence, and items linking him to the incident were recovered.

Jake was booked into Spokane County Jail for rape 2nd degree, where he remains on $100,000 bond at the writing of this release.

The investigation is on-going.



Know the Number

Emergency Services
Situations requiring IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE from Police, Fire or ambulance: call 911

Mental Health Crisis
Situations requiring IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE by phone from trained mental health counselors: call 988

Crime Check
Non-emergency police services: call 509.456.2233 to report crimes no longer in process or submit crime tips.
Crime Check Online Reporting also available.

City Services
Non-emergency reporting of potholes, graffiti, or unlawful camping, utility billing, and general information on city services: call 311 or report online

Social Services
Social services and community resources like housing, food, and employment help: call 211

For general police email contact:
SPDWebMail@spokanepolice.org

Media Relations Contact

Julie Humphreys
509.622.5868
jhumphreys@spokanepolice.org