Suspected Sexual Predator Faces Charges In 4 Cases

MIAMI, FL — Miami police Chief Jorge Colina said Wednesday that a tip from the public led police to a 34-year-old man who is suspected in at least four sexual assault cases, including two last week. Tavares Anthony Canty was taken into custody shortly after 11 a.m. when he was spotted on a bicycle. Both of last week's incidents took place in the Little Haiti section of the city.

"We have confirmed four cases where he is going to be charged with armed sexual battery, kidnapping, armed kidnapping, attempted armed kidnapping, voyeurism," said Colina in a late afternoon press conference. "We would also ask the community if you have been a victim of Mr. Canty, and you have not reported it, please come forward now."

Colina said that police are attempting to link Canty to other incidents. "We have him in custody. You no longer need to be afraid," the chief assured.

Canty has a lengthy criminal history, which includes 23 felony arrests and 9 convictions, according to Colina. who said Canty was homeless for a time. He said that Canty was "still trying to victimize more people" even after he found out that police were looking for him.

Watch as Miami Police Chief Jorge Colina speaks to reporters:

"There is absolutely no doubt this would have continued," the chief said. "He's got a violent criminal past."

Police said that Canty allegedly attempted to kidnap a woman by forcing her inside her home around 7 a.m. Thursday. The victim, in her twenties, was able to run away.

"An hour later, a suspect matching the same description made his way inside a second victim’s home and sexually assaulted her," added Officer Kenia Fallat of the Miami Police Department.

Police released surveillance video of the suspect who is believed to be Canty:

Image and video courtesy Miami Police Department