Bernard C. Abney, 40, of Mobile, has been taken into custody in connection with the stabbing of a woman in Foley's Heritage Park on Wednesday, Jan. 17.

Abney was arrested late in the evening on Saturday, Jan. 20 and is currently being held in the Mobile Metro Jail.

Foley Police Chief Thurston Bullock expressed relief at the arrest.

"We are relieved that he is in custody and appreciate all the hard work by the many agencies involved as well as the media and citizens of our local communities," Bullock said.

In addition, Mayor Ralph Hellmich commended the police force for their swift action.

"I am very proud of our police force and the team effort to bring it to a close with an arrest," Hellmich said. "These types of crimes are extremely rare in our community but when they occur, they cause great anxiety. It is no surprise to me that our men and women closed this difficult case quickly."

Earlier statements from Foley police indicated that Abney will face charges of one felony count of second-degree assault – assault with a deadly weapon – and one felony count of first-degree attempted rape.

The victim, attacked on the Wilbourne Antique Rose Trail on Wednesday evening, sustained stab wounds to the arm, torso, and thigh. A 911 call at 5:40 p.m. reported the incident, leading police to the scene. The woman, whose injuries were described as non-life threatening, was transported to University Hospital for treatment and has since been released, recovering at home.

Chief Bullock credited the victim's strength and tenacity for likely ending the attack, potentially saving her life.

Abney, believed to be homeless, was known to frequent venues assisting the homeless and may have been staying with acquaintances or in homeless encampments.

The Foley Police Department emphasized the gravity of the case, with Chief Bullock stating the case created a sense of fear within Foley citizens and describing it as an "all hands on deck" investigation. Through collaborative efforts and tips from the public, police identified Abney as the suspect and established probable cause for arrest warrants.

Abney's criminal history revealed an 18-year prison sentence for a previous rape conviction. Hellmich said the arrest is an indication that the defendant should not have been released.

"I am, however, disappointed in our state system for allowing an early release of a person who has not been rehabilitated into society," Hellmich said.

Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to contact the Foley Police Department at (251) 943-4431.