Enid Police arrested Chad Wesley Harlan, age 28, for first degree rape yesterday at approximately 5:20 PM. On Wednesday Enid Police asked for help from the community with identifying a man that was sought for questioning in reference to a reported rape that occurred in Enid. A juvenile female reported to police that she was raped by a white male that identified himself as “Damian” on Friday, July 20th at approximately 2:00 AM. The female said that “Damian” was supposed to give her a ride home from Wal Mart, 5505 W. Garriott, but instead drove her to a nearby parking lot and then raped her in the backseat of his car.
Yesterday police were called to 813 E. Cherry and were told that someone matching the description of the suspect in this case was there. Officers arrived and located a maroon Lincoln Town car which matched the description of the suspect’s car. Officers attempted to speak to Harlan, but he jumped a fence and fled on foot. Officers in the area attempted to locate Harlan but were unsuccessful. A short time later officers learned that LIFE EMS and the Fire Department were called to a nearby residence in reference to someone possibly suffering from heatstroke. Officers went to this residence believing that it may be Harlan. Despite Harlan giving the police false information about his identity officers confirmed that the person was in fact Harlan. Apparently Harlan walked up to the residence and began drinking from their water hose. The occupants had Harlan come into their residence not knowing that he was running from police. They called help for Harlan because he appeared to need medical attention. Harlan was transported to Bass Hospital where he was treated and released. Police arrested Harlan for First Degree Rape and he was transported to the Garfield County Detention Facility.
“Within hours of local and state media publishing photos of the suspect , we started to receive information through Text a Tip. The information was dead on and he was identified and arrested that day.” “What a great example of the media and community and law enforcement working together to apprehend violent criminals.” EPD Chief Brian O’Rourke .
Anyone having information that will lead to the arrest or prosecution of any crime is urged to call Crime Stoppers at (580) 233-6233. You can also text a tip from a cell phone by texting to 274637. Be sure to type “Enid” in the subject field. Tips can also be submitted via the internet by going to tipsoft.com. You can earn a reward up to $1,000.00. You will not be required to testify and will not be identified. Callers may also contact the Enid Police Department with information.
Sgt. Dustin Albright
Enid Police Department
301 W. Owen K. Garriott
580-616-7012
[email protected]
