Convicted sex offender arrested again

Syracuse (WSYR-TV) - A convicted level three sex offender has been arrested again for charges of burglary, assault, and attempted rape.

Syracuse police say Ross Sanford, 43, of Syracuse placed a ladder next to a neighbor's bedroom window at 5:57 a.m. Saturday morning.

Investigators believe Sanford pulled the screen off the window and disrobed before climbing on top of a 21-year old woman while she was sleeping.

During an attempted rape, police say, a towel was placed over the woman's mouth to muffle screams.  But, she fought back. 

Before he could get away, the victim recognized her neighbor and called 911.

Officers arrested Sandford at his apartment on Hickory Street.  He was held in custody before an arraignment Sunday morning in Syracuse City Court.