WATERVILLE (WGME) — After a 73-year-old woman was brutally attacked in Waterville, the city’s police chief is suggesting people arm themselves for protection.

Over the weekend, investigators say 32-year-old Mark Halle broke into the victim’s home, beat her and sexually assaulted her at gunpoint.

Police say Halle covered her face with a pillowcase and attacked her.

“This is the type of case one could make an argument that citizens should arm themselves… That a gun in the hand will probably protect you more than someone on phone saying, ‘The police are coming,’” Waterville Police Chief Joe Massey said.

The chief says he knows gun control is a hot button issue, but he thinks it’s worth starting a conversation with seniors about protecting themselves.