Sex offender wanted for Washington Co. attempted rape picked up in Market Square

PITTSBURGH — A registered sex offender was arrested in Market Square in downtown Pittsburgh on Sunday, wanted for attempted rape of a teen.

Carroll Township Police had a warrant out for Russell Marycz. He was picked up this afternoon by the Allegheny County Sheriff Fugitive Task Force.

Police said Marycz, 43 -- who goes by his middle name Michael -- approached a 15-year-old on the street and grabbed him, saying the boy had to help him with directions.

The teen told investigators Marycz said his girlfriend was drugged and in danger, and that he had to help Marycz find her or he'd be hurt.

Marycz allegedly dragged him to a local winery, forced him into the vineyards and told him, "If you run, I'll hurt you."

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According to the criminal complaint, Marycz offered the teen $500 and then $1,000 for sex acts.

After a brief struggle, the victim told police Marycz tackled him and tried to rape him. The teen was able to elbow and punch Marycz to get away.

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Police said Marycz has a history of sexual assault. Officers have searched homes in Washington County and in Pittsburgh, where he has also been known to stay. He is suspected of a similar incident involving a teenager in Monongahela in June.

According to police, they believe Marycz held a screw driver up to the teen's neck and threatened him before the teen got away.

Cox Media Group