A homeless ex-convict was arrested in the rape and torture of a Columbia University graduate student, who was held hostage for 19 hours in her apartment, cut with a knife and left tied up with the bed set ablaze.Robert Williams, 30, faces attempted murder, rape, kidnapping, arson and other charges stemming from last week's assault, police said Friday.
Investigators said evidence found at the scene of the attack and an anonymous tip pointed to Williams. The suspect, also known as William Roberts, has previous convictions for attempted murder and assault.
It was unclear whether he had a lawyer who could comment.
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