Keith K Asberry Jr
EL CERRITO — Police reopened a sexual assault case that remained unsolved for 12 years, and identified a suspect already in custody since March 2015 for other sexual assaults—and he’s also suspected of committing additional attacks.
After reviewing old DNA evidence using new scientific testing methods, and leads developed while investigating other cases, El Cerrito police detectives identified a man suspected of committing a home invasion and sexual assault on February 14, 2005.
One of two women at an apartment in El Cerrito answered a knock on their door shortly after they arrived home that St. Valentine’s Day; they were immediately confronted by an armed man who forced his way inside.
The intruder walked both victims to their respective bedrooms at gunpoint, where he demanded that they give him their money and jewelry. He sexually assaulted one of the women.
Following the assault, the man forced both women outside of their apartment, demanded the keys to one of the women’s car, and ordered them to get inside the car, but they repeatedly refused—and he eventually fled alone in the car.
Despite an investigation in 2005, the case remained unsolved, but new evidence led police this month to release the identity of suspect Keith K. Asberry Jr., 33, of Richmond, and announce that that he would be charged for crimes allegedly committed in 2005 involving the El Cerrito home invasion, and sexual assault.
Asberry remains in custody at Santa Rita Jail on prior separate charges for sexual assault, rape, kidnapping, weapons and other charges—involving another attack. Bail has been denied.
Anyone with information is asked to call the El Cerrito Police detective unit at 510-215-4414, ext. 40, or e-mail investigations@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us.
