Xavier Thomas-Jones attempted to rape a woman at the local gym in 2023

In January 2023, Nashali Alma, a 24-year-old woman, was attacked while exercising alone in her apartment complex's gym in Tampa, Florida. The assailant, later identified as 25-year-old Xavier Thomas-Jones, approached the gym door, and Alma, having seen him there before, let him in, assuming he was there to work out.

Once inside, Thomas-Jones attempted to grab Alma's waist. She immediately pushed him away and demanded that he stop. Undeterred, he pursued her around the gym, eventually grabbing and pinning her to the floor. Throughout the assault, Alma fought back fiercely, striking him and attempting to call 911, as you can see in this chilling video. Her resistance eventually caused Thomas-Jones to release her, allowing her to escape and seek help.

Thomas-Jones was arrested the following day and charged with sexual battery, false imprisonment, and kidnapping. During the investigation, he admitted to having sexual intentions toward Alma and another woman he had approached under suspicious circumstances.

Alma's courageous defense and willingness to share her experience have inspired many. She has since partnered with organizations to offer free self-defense classes, aiming to empower others to protect themselves in dangerous situations.