A man who used to work for traveling carnivals is being sought by U.S. Marshals for allegedly raping a mentally challenged, wheelchair-bound woman while her loved one slept just feet away.
In June 2012 in Schenectady, Michael Hawkins allegedly raped the victim after her family members went to bed. An arrest warrant was issued for Hawkins the following day after the victim reported the crime, but Hawkins remained under the radar for more than a year – until he allegedly sexually assaulted another woman.
Hawkins allegedly raped the wife of a friend who had invited Hawkins to his Rotterdam home in November 2013 for a family gathering.
Authorities believe Hawkins may have fled the area after his crime.
Hawkins used to work for traveling carnivals based out of New Jersey and North Carolina. He could be working with similar companies in Ohio, Tennessee, Puerto Rico and states along the East Coast.
He’s known to have personal ties in New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Oregon, California and Florida.
The 29-year-old is described as someone who can survive anywhere, including wooded areas where he can live off scraps. His friends nicknamed him “Zombie Mike” because of his poor hygiene, who also say he has a temper and abuses alcohol.
Hawkins is described as white, 5’9” tall and 160 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. He has a 1.5 inch scar on his face, a burn mark scar on his right arm and a chest tattoo of the grim reaper.
A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information leading to his arrest. Call U.S. Marshals at 1-800-336-0102 if you have any information.
Hawkins is facing charges of first degree rape, first degree aggravated sexual abuse and third degree criminal sexual act.
