Inmate released early due to COVID-19 arrested for attacking woman on hiking trail

EVERETT, Wash. -- A convicted felon released early from prison because of Covid-19 concerns is back behind bars, accused in a terrifying attack on a woman in Everett.

The victim, a woman in her 60s, was taking a break from hiking on a trail Friday when police say 33-year-old Matthew Cory came up from behind her and started choking her.

The interurban trail in Everett is a popular place for people to get outside for some fresh air.

According to court documents, the victim said she managed to loosen his grip and scream loud enough that he ran off. Police found Cory running through the woods, and the victim positively identified him as her attacker.