Winston-Salem, N.C. – A man will spend more than a decade behind bars after admitting to the violent kidnapping and sexual assault of an elderly woman inside a Winston-Salem business last year, prosecutors said.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
On August 7, Bryon Shane Martin pleaded guilty to first-degree kidnapping and second-degree forcible rape. According to Forsyth County District Attorney Jim O’Neill, the crimes stemmed from an incident on September 10, 2023.
Martin received a sentence ranging from 180 months (15 years) to 276 months (23 years) in prison as per Fox8.
The 2023 Attack
Authorities said Martin entered a Reynolda Road business shortly after it opened, threatened the victim with a hammer, and then sexually assaulted her in the store. He fled afterward.
Investigators described the assault as a “random act of violence”, noting that Martin and the victim were strangers.
Swift Arrest
Less than two hours after the crime, officers found Martin in the same area of town. The victim identified him as the attacker, and nearby shoppers provided matching descriptions to police.
Martin was arrested and charged with first-degree forcible rape and first-degree kidnapping.
Community Impact and Law Enforcement Response
The Forsyth County District Attorney’s Office emphasized the seriousness of the attack and commended the quick work of responding officers.
This case highlights both the dangers of random acts of violence and the critical role of community members in helping law enforcement identify suspects quickly.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or visit online.rainn.org for 24/7 confidential support.
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