JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF)- Lowell Murray has pleaded not guilty to attempted sexual battery, stalking and assault.

The career criminal appeared in court yesterday for arraignment on the charges. His next court date is April. Murray is represented by the public defender’s office.

Murray was recently indicted after he allegedly sexually assaulted a woman on her way to work in downtown LaFollette. As a result of the alleged attack, the woman now carries a gun, according to court records.

In July 2020, the woman was entering her business when Murray allegedly approached her, yelled obscenities and grabbed her, the police report said.  When she tried to flee, Murray chased her. While she did escape him, he continued to frequent her store. This prompted her to begin to carry a weapon, the report said.

Murray, who still attempts contact with the victim, has noticed the gun and allegedly commented that the she does need to carry it for protection.

Murray has a criminal history that includes three counts of rape, theft, burglary, public intoxication, felony possession of marijuana, sexual battery, solicitation and DUI. He also has been booked into the county jail over 70 times.

Murray remains free on bond. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED- 02/17/2021- 6AM)