'East Coast Rapist' Facing 54 Counts in Maryland

The man suspected as the East Coast Rapist Aaron Thomas, 41, was arraigned in Prince George's County this morning and is facing a total of 54 counts in connection with the rapes of six Maryland women between February 1997 and August 2001.

Thomas is already serving five life sentences for similar crimes in Virginia, but Prince George's County State's Attorney Angela Alsobrooks said it is important that he also stand trial in Maryland.

“We have six victims who are looking for closure and the ability to put these horrible events behind them and move on with their lives,” Alsobrooks said in a statement.

“It is important that we help them heal from these incidents and that we send a message to all would be criminals that if you commit a crime in our county, regardless of what charges you may be facing elsewhere, we will hold you accountable for your actions and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law,” she stated.

Thomas was indicted in March 2012 for rape and related charges in connection to attacks on six women in Prince George's County. He was arrested at his New Haven, CT home based on a Prince George's County Crime Solvers tip.

Next, Thomas will have his case status hearing on August 16. He is being currently held in the county detention facility in Upper Marlboro where he will stay for the remainder of this case.