An individual with a criminal history was arrested for attempted rape shortly after being released from jail.

A man with a criminal history was arrested for attempting to kidnap and rape a stranger he captured on a Virginia trail after being released from jail, police said.

On Monday evening, the Herndon Police Department declared that Denis Humberto Naverrette Romero, 31, was arrested for attempting to sexually assault a stranger he had abducted from a trail during a press conference.

Herndon Police Chief Maggie DeBoard expressed her sadness and outrage over the crime that occurred in her town, stating, "I am deeply saddened and outraged that such an incident could take place here in Herndon."

In over 12 years as chief of police, this is the first stranger rape reported in the town.

According to DeBoard, there is a documented history of sexual assaults and indecent exposures by Romero, a Honduran national, dating back to 2022 in the region.

According to a source close to the matter, Romero is homeless and has been in and out of jail, but never served any significant time. Additionally, the source stated that Romero has had multiple charges dropped to lower offenses by prosecutors.

From weapons and auto theft to abduction and rape, Romero's crimes have escalated to include indecent exposure and sexual assault.

"The occurrence of such a case in a public area that is considered safe and frequented by all members of the community has a ripple effect, affecting not only the victim but the entire community."

At approximately 8:55 pm on Monday, a call was made about a woman who had been raped and was seeking assistance. Officers were dispatched to the W on D trail to respond to the incident.

The woman informed authorities that Romero boldly seized her and pushed her to the ground before raping her.

The victim managed to escape Romero's attack and sought help. The police quickly found Romero following the incident.

Further investigation revealed his criminal history and officers suspect there may be more victims and witnesses to his Monday night offense.

The escalating behavior of this individual, who has been arrested and released multiple times, culminated in a public rape last night in our town, according to DeBoard.

Gov. Youngkin expressed outrage that local officials allowed Romero to be released back onto the streets.

Youngkin expressed his heartache for the victim and anger towards Fairfax County officials for releasing violent illegal immigrants who should have been prosecuted and deported. This, he stated, is a violation of their fundamental responsibility to ensure public safety.

"It is unacceptable to prioritize the safety of violent illegal immigrants over the residents of Fairfax, Virginia. Virginia is not a sanctuary state. When President Trump takes office, the political posturing will end, and localities will cooperate with ICE to protect Virginians."

Currently, Romero is being held at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center without bond.

The Herndon Police Department is requesting anyone with information about Monday's incident or who believes they may be a victim to contact them at (703) 435-6846.

DeBoard vowed to ensure that the individual who was removed from the streets in a rapid manner and remains in custody is safe in town.

ICE did not immediately respond when Planet Chronicle Digital contacted them.