A recent incident at a Safeway in Phoenix has led to the arrest of a 24-year-old man, Daiveon Dean Ellsberry, who stands accused of attempted sexual assault and kidnapping. The incident involved a 16-year-old female employee who reported that Ellsberry had crawled underneath the bathroom stall she was in and exposed himself to her.

Details of the Incident

According to police reports, the incident occurred on Sunday at a Safeway near 40th Street and Chandler Boulevard. The teenage employee stated that she heard Ellsberry enter the women’s bathroom loudly and angrily. He proceeded to enter the stall next to hers and then allegedly slid underneath the partition into her stall with his pants down.

The victim reacted by screaming and pushing Ellsberry away. She then called out for her coworkers while Ellsberry instructed her to be quiet before fleeing the scene. The victim promptly reported the incident to her colleagues, prompting a police response.

Arrest and Investigation

Following the incident, police reviewed surveillance footage and identified Ellsberry as the suspect. He was subsequently apprehended at an extended stay living center approximately a mile and a half from the Safeway.

During questioning, Ellsberry confessed to following the victim into the restroom and entering her stall with his pants down. He claimed that he intended to ask her something but refrained from doing so when she seemed unresponsive. Despite being informed of the victim’s age, Ellsberry reportedly expressed no change in his feelings regarding the situation.

Legal Ramifications

Ellsberry has been charged with attempted sexual assault and kidnapping. His arrest underscores the seriousness with which such incidents are treated by law enforcement and the legal system.

Preventing Sexual Assault: Awareness and Measures

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of implementing measures to prevent sexual assault and harassment in public spaces, particularly those frequented by vulnerable populations such as teenagers and employees.

• Workplace Safety Policies: Employers should prioritize the safety of their employees by implementing robust policies and procedures to address and prevent incidents of harassment and assault.
• Education and Training: Providing education and training on sexual harassment and assault awareness can empower individuals to recognize and respond to potentially dangerous situations.
• Community Support: Encouraging a culture of support and solidarity within communities can create environments where individuals feel comfortable reporting incidents of harassment and assault without fear of retaliation or disbelief.

Upholding Safety and Accountability

The arrest of Daiveon Dean Ellsberry highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and action in combating sexual assault and harassment. By prioritizing safety measures, raising awareness, and holding perpetrators accountable, communities can work towards creating environments where everyone feels safe and respected.