FILE - In this March 7, 2011 file photo, Aaron Thomas, dubbed the East Coast Rapist by law enforcement, leaves New Haven Superior Court after his arraignment in New Haven, Conn. Thomas is suspected in the sexual assault of at least 17 women from Virginia to Rhode Island over 12 years. Thomas' arrest offers a look at a case unusual for its size, scope and level of cooperation among authorities. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill, File)

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LEESBURG, Va. - A man suspected of being the "East Coast Rapist" has been indicted on three felony counts by a Loudoun County grand jury.

The grand jury handed down the indictments of 39-year-old Aaron Thomas on Monday. The three felonies carry a potential punishment of three life sentences.

Loudoun County Circuit Court is expected to issue an arrest warrant for Thomas, who was arrested in Connecticut following a massive media blitz. The warrant should secure Thomas' return to Virginia where he will be tried for rape, abduction with intent to defile, and forcible sodomy.

Thomas is in custody in Connecticut on charges stemming from a 2007 attack in New Haven. He has also been charged in Prince William County, Va. with six felonies. He faces charges in other area jurisdictions.

"This is a very satisfying time for the law enforcement community after years of intense investigation," said Commonwealth's Attorney Jim Plowman. "While these investigations continue, we will now concentrate much of our effort on ensuring that Thomas is incapable of preying on further victims."

Anyone with information that might be related to the case, including any unreported crimes, should contact law enforcement.

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(Copyright 2011 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)

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