Police Make Arrest in DragonCon Sexual Assault

ATLANTA - Atlanta Police said they have made an arrest in the sexual assault of a woman near Peachtree Center Mall during Dragon Con, the annual science fiction and fantasy convention held Labor Day Weekend.

Gary Jefferson Hood was arrested on sexual battery charges. He made his first appearance Friday morning.

Investigators said Hood assaulted a woman he met at DragonCon between 3 and 5 a.m. on the Sunday of the event. Police said the woman was in town for the convention, but the actual attack happened away from the hotel, outside on Peachtree Road.

The victim's friend was able to get a picture of the suspect after the victim told her what happened. Police said the man introduced himself as "Gary" from Marietta. Police aren't sure if that's his real name but do believe he is from the metro area.

In general, DragonCon attendees who spoke to FOX 5 said they felt safe at the event. Many did said, however, that safety was always on their minds and they stuck together in groups to make sure everyone stayed safe.