VADNAIS HEIGHTS, MN – A 21-year-old Minnesota man faces criminal sexual conduct charges after allegedly attacking a woman who was taking an evening walk while on the phone with a friend.
Tristen Alan Leritz, who stands 6 feet 8 inches tall and weighs 248 pounds, was arrested Thursday following tips from the public. He appeared in court Monday and is being held on $500,000 bond.
The attack occurred Tuesday evening when the 51-year-old victim was walking in Vadnais Heights while using headphones to speak with a friend. According to the criminal complaint, Leritz approached from behind, covered the victim’s mouth, and forced her to the ground.
During the 15 to 20 minute assault, Leritz restrained the victim by pinching her nose, covering her mouth, and pressing his forearm against her neck, authorities said. The victim’s friend, who remained on the phone throughout the attack, heard her cries for help and immediately called 911.
Law enforcement officers responded to the scene and recovered several items of evidence, including the victim’s shoes, headphones, and glasses. The suspect’s glasses were also found at the location.
The victim was transported to a medical facility where examination revealed multiple cuts and bruises consistent with her account of the assault. DNA evidence collected during the examination matched Leritz, according to investigators.
During police questioning, Leritz allegedly acknowledged his actions. According to the complaint, he made a statement to investigators saying, “F*** it, since I’m a virgin.”
Ramsey County Attorney John Choi condemned the attack in a statement released following the arrest. “This utterly senseless attack shocked an entire public with its brazen nature,” Choi said.
The swift arrest came after law enforcement released information to the public seeking assistance in identifying the suspect. Multiple tips from community members led investigators to Leritz, who was taken into custody without incident on Thursday.
Leritz faces charges of criminal sexual conduct. He is scheduled to appear in court Monday for his next hearing.
Authorities praised the quick response of the victim’s friend, whose immediate call to 911 helped preserve evidence and expedite the investigation. The victim is recovering from her injuries.
The case remains under investigation. Additional charges may be filed pending the outcome of the ongoing probe, officials said.
