Law enforcement officials arrested an alleged serial rapist, often referred to as the “College Park Cuddler” or “Georgetown Cuddler,” who is possibly connected to multiple sexual assault cold cases in Maryland and Washington, D.C.
Officials announced the arrest of 54-year-old Ernesto Ramon Mercado at a press conference on Wednesday. He was arrested the previous night near his home in Arlington, Virginia.
“Our detectives never gave up and today’s announcement speaks to their unending commitment to bring justice to our victims,” Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia Pamela A. Smith said at the press conference.
Detective Alexander MacBean condemned the suspect’s widely used nickname.
“Over the years, this term has only caused more harm to our victims,” MacBean said. “This man is a predator, and his intent …