The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office is actively searching for Stephen Janis who raped and abused a woman and held her against her will on Thursday night, November 17, Sheriff Jeff Wiley of the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office said.

Deputies responded to a nearby hospital where they met with the victim who advised that Janis held her against her will, beat her, and then raped her.

Janis is a white male, 5 foot 9 inches tall and approximately 175 pounds. He may be driving a white 2002 Chevrolet pickup truck bearing a Louisiana license plate X946799.

Janis will be charged with first-degree rape, false imprisonment with a dangerous weapon, aggravated assault with a firearm, and second-degree battery.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Stephen Janis is urged to contact the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office at 225-621-4636 or by texting 847411 to our anonymous tip line from any cellular device or Crime Stoppers at 235-344-STOP (7868). To be eligible for a cash reward, you must contact Crime Stoppers immediately