Randy Edward Patrick, 39, is facing charges of sexual assault and committing an indecent act after an incident took place behind the Smithers Public Library Monday afternoon.
On July 7 at 3:19 p.m., Smithers RCMP received a report of a possible assault in progress taking place behind the library. Officers attended immediately and found Edwards sexually assaulting a 59-year-old female.
Patrick was immediately arrested.
Numerous people in the area witnessed the event.
The victim had a laceration to her head and was almost unconscious when she was taken to Bulkley Valley District Hospital with minor injuries. She was released later in the day.
The victim and suspect are known to each other and the RCMP said it was an isolated incident.
Patrick remains in custody and is awaiting his next court appearance.