ST. GEORGE, Utah — A Mexican Hat man has been arrested after allegedly sexually assaulting a woman in a laundromat bathroom in
Sterling Begay
front of her children.
The incident occurred on Friday at about 12:40 p.m. at a laundromat at 785 E. St. George Blvd. The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Sterling Begay, forced the woman into the restroom and proceeded to sexually assault her, according to the probable cause statement.
The statement indicates the woman fought Begay off. He then left the scene taking her cellphone and a small amount of cash.
The victim told police she smelled a strong odor of alcohol coming from Begay’s breath.
“Her two children were present and frightened by Sterling’s actions,” the statement indicates.
Hours later, Begay was arrested in Washington City at Walmart after he was found about $225 worth of stolen clothes, according to the probable cause statement.
Begay was wearing clothing that matched evidence found at the crime scene, police reported.
“Sterling was interviewed and confessed to the crime,” the statement indicates.
Begay was charged with robbery, forced sexual abuse, kidnapping, criminal mischief, disorderly conduct and intoxication.
He was also charged with retail theft of under $500.
He was booked into Purgatory Correctional Facility.
Begay had an initial appearance in the 5th District Court in St. George, Monday.
