A Tampa woman was held against her will for nearly a week. She was able to escape her captor, but not before she was tortured and scalped.

Now, the Tampa Police Department is asking the public to help them locate 41-year-old Leon Washington, the man accused of committing the crimes.

According to police, the woman and her 6-year-old daughter lived with Washington at 3419 E. Deleuil Avenue. Her nightmare began on December 23rd. Washington is alleged to have attacked the woman with an ice pick, clothes iron, and a knife causing serious abrasions, burns and lacerations.

A spokesperson for the Tampa Police Department stated that the victim had her hair braided and Washington allegedly cut the braids out of her hair, cutting portions of her scalp as well.

He is also alleged to have hit the 6-year-old and spit on her, but did not seriously injure her, police said.

On December 29th, the victim’s sister went to the home and was able to convince Washington to allow the woman to get medical attention. He reportedly agreed, but instructed them not to go to a hospital.

They went to the home of a relative and called police. The victim was treated and released at a local hospital. Police are not releasing her name to protect her identity.

The Tampa Police Department and the U. S. Marshal’s Task Force are currently seeking Washington. He is described as a Black male with gray eyes, he weighs about 260 pounds and stands 6 feet tall. There is an active warrant for his arrest on charges of aggravated battery, false imprisonment, and kidnapping.

Police further stated that Washington has a violent criminal history and should be considered armed and dangerous.

There is also a reward of $1,500 being offered for information leading to Washington’s arrest. Callers can remain anonymous. Anyone with information pertaining to his whereabouts is asked to contact the Tampa Police Department at (813) 231-6130.