Police searching for man accused of attempted rape

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Wilmington Police need your help to find a man who witnesses said tried to rape a woman Monday at a business off Eastwood Road.

Wilmington Police spokeswoman Linda Rawley said officers have arrest warrants for John Cornelius Stanton, 46, for attempted rape and kidnapping. He is described as white, 5’9”, and 160 lbs.

Photo: Wilmington Police

Witnesses said Stanton went into a salon in the 400 block of Eastwood Road shortly after 4 p.m., lured one of the attendants to the back, and tried to sexually assault her. The victim was able to escape with only minor injuries.

Witnesses told police that Stanton ran out of the building, got into a green Honda CRV, and drove away.

Photo: Wilmington Police

If you know anything about this alleged crime, call the Wilmington Police Department at (910) 343-3609 or send info to Text-A-Tip.