Madison police named a suspect Tuesday in the brutal beating and rape of a woman two years ago.
The Madison Police Department said they are looking for help in locating Courtney M. Cowins, 28, who has an extensive criminal record and reported addresses in Madison and Fort Atkinson over the past eight years.
According to a police report, the attacker entered the unlocked door of the victim's home on Jana Lane Dec. 5, 2006. He proceeded to use his own gun to beat the 25-year-old woman before raping her using handcuffs. Police said the level of premeditation made the assault unusual.
It wasn't just a person walking down the street,"" East District Detective Julie Rortvedt told the Wisconsin State Journal in August 2008. ""He knew what he wanted to do. That's why it's scary he's still out there.""
Public Information Officer Joel DeSpain said the detective who has been working on the case has found ""new investigative leads"" tying Cowins to the assault. Typically, police will put out a photo or sketch of a suspect, but will not release a name.
""If he knows he's wanted he may run,"" DeSpain said. This case though, is an exception. ""We've not been able to locate him on our own so we are looking for the public's help to lead us to where he is now so that we can arrest him.""
The attacker fled from the house wearing only jeans and a T-shirt, suggesting he lived or parked nearby. He was also believed to be the same man neighbors reported acting suspiciously in the area for periods before the attack, police said.
Online court records show Cowins' record includes theft, bail jumping, battery, disorderly conduct and a number of traffic offenses.
Police describe the suspect as a black male, 25 to 30 years old, 5' 11"", with a heavy build.
""People should use caution around him if they know of him,"" Madison Police Captain Tom Snyder said. ""We do believe that he is a dangerous person.""
Anyone with information on Mr. Cowins whereabouts is urged to call Madison Area Crime Stoppers at 608-266-6014.
