Orlando police hunt for suspects in 2 downtown attacks

Officers identify 2 suspects

ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando Police Department Chief Orlando Rolon identified two men Saturday that his department has linked to two separate violent attacks in downtown Orlando.

He said DNA evidence linked James Calixte, 36, to a sexual assault that happened on the 1300 block of East Jefferson Street in Thornton Park on Oct. 25.

"Based on the circumstances of the incident on East Jefferson, we do believe and we expect everyone to understand to treat Mr. Calixte as a violent offender," said Detective Charles Crosby.

News 6 found out the sexual assault happened two days after Calixte was released from the Orange County Jail.

He was arrested on Sept. 3 after a woman said he attacked her outside her downtown apartment on East South Street.

Witnesses followed the suspect, and police arrested Calixte.

Rolon said Michael Scarlett, 26, is wanted for an attack that happened on Cathcart Avenue on Oct. 9.

In that incident, a woman said she returned home from walking her dog at Lake Eola and a man had followed her home.

She said he forced his way inside and beat her.

Rolon and his detectives said both men are dangerous, and if they are seen in public, residents should dial 911.

Authorities ask that anyone with information on the location of the two men call Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS.


About the Author

Erik Sandoval joined the News 6 team as a reporter in May 2013 and became an Investigator in 2020. During his time at News 6, Erik has covered several major stories, including the 2016 Presidential campaign. He was also one of the first reporters live on the air at the Pulse Nightclub shooting.

Recommended Videos