Lake Charles, Louisiana - The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office (CPSO) Special Victims Unit has arrested 26-year-old Shannon E. Morris, Jr. of Lake Charles, following a series of serious crimes that began in Calcasieu Parish and extended into neighboring areas. Morris faces multiple charges, including second-degree rape, kidnapping, and aggravated assault with a firearm.
The incidents began in the early morning hours of January 30, when Morris allegedly forced his way into a victim's home in Lake Charles. According to the victim, he made unwanted sexual advances and sexually assaulted her while claiming to possess a firearm. After locking her in a room and preventing her from leaving, Morris eventually left the residence.
The following day, on January 31, deputies were dispatched to investigate a sexual assault at approximately 3:00 a.m. The victim reported that Morris had arrived at her home, forced his way inside, demanded money, and raped her while threatening her life and claiming to have a gun. He stole her firearm before forcing her to drive him to a location in Iowa.
Later that morning, around 8:00 a.m., another victim encountered Morris in the parking lot of a store on Miller Avenue in Iowa. He approached her with a firearm, demanding a ride to Jennings. Although the victim attempted to let him take the vehicle, he forcibly entered the passenger seat and drove away. This incident continued into Acadia Parish, prompting ongoing investigations by additional law enforcement agencies.
Following these events, CPSO detectives issued three warrants for Morris' arrest between February 1 and February 4, signed by Judge Tony Fazzio. Morris is currently incarcerated in the Lafayette Parish Jail and faces a total bond set at $3.23 million. In addition to the aforementioned charges, he is also subject to a hold from Probation & Parole.
The investigations into these incidents are still ongoing, with assistance from the Acadia Parish Sheriff's Office, Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office, Crowley Police Department, and Duson Police Department. Detective Elizabeth Ivey of the CPSO Special Victims Unit is the lead investigator on the case.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.