Silver Spring Man Charged in Attempted Rape at Mr. Smoothie

A Silver Spring man has been charged in the attempted rape of a Rockville store employee, according to an online police statement.

Yera Basnueva, 31, started up a conversation with the victim Monday morning at the Mr. Smoothie eatery at 33-G Maryland Ave., Rockville, police said. About half an hour later, he visited the restroom of the eatery and exited the restroom with his pants down. He grabbed the victim and attempted to sexually assault her on the counter, punching her in the face, police said.

The victim punched and kicked Basnueva and fled from the store. The incident was captured on surveillance camera, according to police.

Police detectives arrested Basnueva Tuesday night near his residence. He was charged with attempted first-degree rape and second-degree assault, and is being held without bond, according to police.