Troy Police Arrest Well-Known Businessman for Raping Two Students

Almost a month after two girls were reportedly raped in Troy, Police have a man in custody they say is responsible.

 Police arrested 35 year old Andre Lamon Ellis of Troy Wednesday night at Good Deeds Auto, his car washing business in the city. Ellis is well known in the community as "Mr. Shine," from his business dealings.

This came after police took time out to re-focus on the case. "That led to some new developments on the case, which led us to (the arrest,)" said Chief Jimmy Ennis.

 Police say Ellis lives in Hunter's Mountain Mobile Estates, the same mobile park where he allegedly raped the two women. Police say the rapes occurred on March 26th, with the first around three in the afternoon and the second around seven that night.

 Captain Danny Barron, the lead investigator on the case, said the last few weeks have taken a toll on law enforcement. "Anytime you have a young female attacked, you can't help but be emotional about it. We don't just do this job; it's not just a job to us. We really believe in what we are doing. It's hard not to be emotional when you see young people victimized like they were," he said.

Chief Ennis said he agrees. "We're very pleased to be able to bring some closure, not only for the victims but for all the city of Troy."

Students like Breauna Townsend say they are relieved that Ellis is in custody, but will continue to be on the lookout. "I feel like we should still be on alert just because of the simple fact that there are more rapists that haven't been caught or reported. So I'm just being cautious of my surroundings." 

Ennis is being held under a $450,000 bond at the Pike County Jail.