Nathaniel Richard Fuller, 29, was convicted in Lynchburg Circuit Court on February 24, 2024, for felony charges of aggravated sexual battery and strangulation in connection with a violent assault at a local hotel in June 2024.
Fuller was found guilty of the charges related to an incident on June 2, 2024, at the Baymont Inn on Wards Road, where police responded to a call for a severely assaulted victim. The victim had met Fuller through an escort site, and the encounter quickly escalated into a violent attack.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers found the victim with significant injuries, including bruising and scratches to her neck, a black eye, and difficulty speaking. She was later transported to Lynchburg General Hospital for medical treatment.
The investigation revealed that Fuller had attempted to coerce the victim into further sexual activity, and when she refused, he strangled her, causing her to lose consciousness. When found by a friend, the victim was unconscious and partially undressed.
Fuller was arrested after an extensive investigation led by the Lynchburg Police Department, with help from the Waynesboro Police Department. While he was acquitted of malicious wounding, he was also found guilty of the misdemeanor charge of unlawful creation of an image of another.
The conviction marks a significant victory for the victim and the community, reaffirming the importance of holding perpetrators of violent crimes accountable for their actions. It also highlights the dangers of online interactions and underscores the need for caution and prioritizing safety.
