Bellingham police suspect man last month twice raped victim he knew
Bellingham police arrested a man they suspect of two sexual assaults in February of a victim he knew, once when the victim allegedly was unable to give consent due to alcohol consumption.
Christian Alexis Figueroa, 25, was booked into Whatcom County Jail on Saturday, March 7, on suspicion of second- and third-degree rape, and jail records show he is being held in lieu of $100,000 bail.
The first sexual assault occurred during a social visit when Figueroa raped the victim by forcible compulsion when the victim was physically helpless after consuming alcohol, Lt. Claudia Murphy told The Bellingham Herald in an email.
During the second assault, the victim did not consent to sexual intercourse or contact by using words or conduct, Murphy reported.
Police contacted Figueroa Saturday and he was taken into custody without incident, Murphy wrote.
Resources
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, you can contact the following local resources for free, confidential support:
▪ Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services: 24-hour Help Line: 360-715-1563, Email: info@dvsas.org.
▪ Lummi Victims of Crime: 360-312-2015.
▪ Bellingham Police: You can call anonymously at 360-778-8611, or go online at cob.org/tips.
▪ WWU Consultation and Sexual Assault Support Survivor Advocacy Services: 360-650-3700 or wp.wwu.edu/sexualviolence/.
