SANFORD, NC — In the early hours of July 1, 2025, Curtis Blake Rader, 28, of Sanford, North Carolina, was arrested after allegedly assaulting 80-year-old Mary Louise Jenkins at a residence on McPherson Road. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office responded after receiving a report from Central Carolina Hospital around 1:45 a.m., where Jenkins was brought in with multiple serious injuries.
According to investigators, Jenkins reported that she had been violently attacked and nearly strangled unconscious during the incident. Deputies acted swiftly, responding to the scene and identifying Rader as the suspect. He was taken into custody without incident.
Curtis Blake Rader has been formally charged with the following offenses:
- Assault Inflicting Serious Bodily Injury
- Assault by Strangulation
- Assault on a Female
He is currently being held without bond at the Lee County Detention Center while the investigation continues.
Due to the severity of her injuries, Mary Louise Jenkins was transferred from Central Carolina Hospital to UNC Hospital for advanced treatment. Her condition remains critical, and she is under close medical supervision.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Concern
The assault on Mary Louise Jenkins has shocked the local community. Known for her warmth and long-standing presence in Sanford, her attack has prompted widespread concern and condemnation. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and urges anyone with additional information related to the case or to Curtis Blake Rader to come forward.
Advocates for senior safety and domestic abuse prevention are reminding the public of the importance of vigilance and reporting signs of abuse. This case underscores the critical need for community awareness and protective resources for elderly individuals.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or violence, contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office or local support services. Help is available.
Curtis Blake Rader Arrested After Violent Assault on 80-Year-Old Mary Louise Jenkins in Sanford, NC
Victim in Critical Condition Following Brutal Attack
SANFORD, NC — In the early hours of July 1, 2025, Curtis Blake Rader, 28, of Sanford, North Carolina, was arrested after allegedly assaulting 80-year-old Mary Louise Jenkins at a residence on McPherson Road. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office responded after receiving a report from Central Carolina Hospital around 1:45 a.m., where Jenkins was brought in with multiple serious injuries.
According to investigators, Jenkins reported that she had been violently attacked and nearly strangled unconscious during the incident. Deputies acted swiftly, responding to the scene and identifying Rader as the suspect. He was taken into custody without incident.
Curtis Blake Rader has been formally charged with the following offenses:
- Assault Inflicting Serious Bodily Injury
- Assault by Strangulation
- Assault on a Female
He is currently being held without bond at the Lee County Detention Center while the investigation continues.
Due to the severity of her injuries, Mary Louise Jenkins was transferred from Central Carolina Hospital to UNC Hospital for advanced treatment. Her condition remains critical, and she is under close medical supervision.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Concern
The assault on Mary Louise Jenkins has shocked the local community. Known for her warmth and long-standing presence in Sanford, her attack has prompted widespread concern and condemnation. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and urges anyone with additional information related to the case or to Curtis Blake Rader to come forward.
Advocates for senior safety and domestic abuse prevention are reminding the public of the importance of vigilance and reporting signs of abuse. This case underscores the critical need for community awareness and protective resources for elderly individuals.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or violence, contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office or local support services. Help is available.