Convicted Rapist Mistakenly Released on Bail; Authorities Urge Public’s Help

Convicted Rapist Mistakenly Released on Bail; Authorities Urge Public’s Help

SEATTLE, Wash. — King County detectives are urgently searching for 49-year-old Noel Stepney, a convicted rapist who was mistakenly released from custody in July after posting $75,000 bail. Authorities are asking the public for help locating him, and Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to his arrest.


A Dangerous Mistake: How It Happened

Stepney, whose criminal record spans back to 1991, was recently convicted of second-degree rape in a King County courtroom. The case stems from a harrowing incident in which Stepney attacked a woman in her own apartment.

According to investigators, the woman initially mistook Stepney for a neighbor after seeing him in the laundry room of her building. She asked for help moving a television into her unit. Once inside, Stepney assaulted and raped her, covering her mouth and issuing violent threats—promising to harm her and kill her dog if she told anyone.

The victim reported the assault to Seattle Police, and DNA collected by the Washington State Patrol Crime Lab confirmed Stepney as the attacker.


Released Despite Conviction

Despite being convicted by a jury, Stepney was mistakenly released because no order was submitted to remand him into custody following the verdict. According to the King County Prosecutor’s Office, both the defense and the prosecution failed to raise the issue, leaving his original pre-trial bail amount of $75,000 in place.

Stepney posted bond and walked free, even as he faces a minimum sentence of 159 months (over 13 years)—with the potential for a longer term pending his sentencing hearing.

Upon discovering the error, prosecutors swiftly filed a motion for a bench warrant, which was granted on July 28. Police have been searching for him since.


Public Safety Concerns and Appeal for Help

Authorities consider Stepney a dangerous individual, given the violent nature of his crime and history of prior offenses. Officials are encouraging the public to remain vigilant and not approach him under any circumstances.

“Now that King County prosecutors have secured a conviction, he is facing a minimum 159-month sentence – potentially longer,” prosecutors said in a statement. “That will be decided by the Court at a to-be-determined sentencing date.”

If anyone sees Noel Stepney or knows of his whereabouts, they are urged to call 911 immediately.

To submit an anonymous tip, individuals can:

  • Use the P3 Tips App

  • Call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)


Reward Offered

Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for any tip that leads to Stepney’s arrest.

Authorities hope that increased public awareness and community cooperation will result in a swift apprehension, preventing further risk to public safety.

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