Updated on May 10, 7:30 p.m.
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A 21-year-old man has been arrested and is facing charges related to an attempted sexual assault of a University of Pennsylvania student near campus.
According to police, Ticquarn Thomas was taken into custody on Wednesday, May 10. Thomas is facing several charges, including rape and sexual assault.
The alleged assault happened around 2 a.m. on Tuesday, May 2, outside the Hamilton Court apartments at 38th and Chestnut streets. Law enforcement sources said the Penn student was taking out the trash when a man armed with a knife threatened her and attempted to sexually assault her.
The man then fled on foot east down Chestnut Street, investigators said.
Police found clear surveillance footage of the alleged attacker and released images of him.
Penn police remind students to be cautious when they are out; limit distractions and utilize the university’s 24/7 walking escort program if needed.
Editor’s update, March 3, 2025:
Thomas pleaded guilty to some of the charges, including rape, possession of an instrument in a crime, and making terroristic threats. All of the other dozen charges were dropped. Thomas will be sentenced in March 2025.