Crime Watch

Man Faces Rape Charge In On-Line Dating Case

LA MESA -- La Mesa police arrested a man who they said used an on-line dating service to meet a woman who was raped during the encounter. The investigation is also attempting to find other possible victims.

Police Friday said that earlier this week, on Feb., 11, detectives arrested Sean Banks who is suspected of raping a woman he met on the on-line dating website, ChristianMingle.com.

Police said In this particular case, Sean Banks used the online name of “Rarity.” They charge that Banks arrived at the victim’s home in La Mesa and was sexually aggressive towards the victim, ultimately raping her. It was later discovered during the investigation that Banks has also used online names such as “Rylan”, Rylan Butterwood, and Rylan Harbough.

Banks, 37,  from Del Mar was arrested and booked into County Jail on the following charges:

-261(a)(2) PC – Rape by Force
-459/460 PC – Residential Burglary
-289(a)(1)(A) PC – Digital Penetration by Force.

This investigation is continuing. After further follow up in the investigation, the La Mesa Police Department is concerned there may have been more cases with other women. Anyone with information is urged to call the La Mesa Police Department, Detective Scott at (619) 667-7538.