A Spanish Lake man with convictions for violent offenses in local, out-of-state, and federal courts is back in jail after trying to rape an acquaintance last week.
According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department’s probable cause statement, the crime occurred on Thursday, March 12, in the 3900 block of North 23rd Street in the city’s Hyde Park area.
According to police, Gilbert Vasser Jr., 40, was driving with a companion looking for a location to smoke. He pulled over on North 23rd and ordered the buddy to remove her jacket. When she refused, Vasser exited the car, proceeded to the passenger side, and demanded she remove her jacket, shirt, and bra.
Police stated the incident was partially videotaped. The audio captures Vasser repeatedly demanding, “take it off,” as the woman sobs and pleads for a ride home.
The victim eventually succumbed and removed her top and bra, and Vasser returned to the driving position. According to police, Vasser touched the victim and, at one point, placed his mouth on her breasts.
Vasser exited the car again, this time walking around to the passenger door and attempting to remove the victim’s pants. Police say the victim fought back and kicked Vasser.
Vasser allegedly attacked the victim, yanked her hair, and hit her with a metal drink tumbler. Police claimed he grabbed the woman from the car, dragged her across the ground, and proceeded to strike her.
According to police, Vasser stole the victim’s phone and watch before driving away. The victim flagged down a passing car. The bystander took the victim to a police station and reported the assault.
According to authorities, the victim sustained scratches on her hands, knees, chest, and arms.
On Saturday, March 14, police apprehended Vasser.
The St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office charged Vasser with attempted rape, sexual abuse, kidnapping, and second-degree assault. Vasser remains in custody without bond, awaiting a future court appearance.
Vasser has many previous convictions in St. Louis County, including robbery and armed criminal action, as well as unauthorized use of a firearm and resisting arrest in the city. Vasser has a federal firearms record and was previously convicted in Georgia for forceful rape, aggravated assault, and felonious restraint.
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