A man accused of beating and sexually assaulting a woman in Ocean Beach pleaded not guilty in court Wednesday.
At about 10:15 p.m. on Sunday, police officers were called to the 4800 block of Long Branch Avenue to investigate a possible sexual assault. Police say a concerned neighbor called 911 to report a woman screaming, allegedly being attacked in an attempted rape.
Officers arrested suspect Richard Butts, 25, at the scene in connection with the sexual assault. The victim – whose name was not released – was transported to a local hospital wearing a neck brace.
He was booked into the George Bailey Detention Facility on four charges including kidnapping with intent to commit robbery and sexual assault, forcible oral copulation and assault with intent to commit rape.
During an arraignment on Wednesday, Butts pleaded not guilty to the charges.
His bail was set at $300,000, officials confirmed.
Butts is scheduled to appear in court again for a preliminary hearing on Apr. 10. He faces life in prison if convicted.
Photo Credit: NBC 7 San Diego