RALEIGH, N.C. — Raleigh investigators say they remain focused on solving the murder of Stephanie Bennett. For the first time in the year-old case, they have released behavioral characteristics of the suspected killer.

Bennett, 23, was sexually assaulted and murdered in her North Raleigh apartment last May. Based on their findings, investigators have developed behavioral characteristics of the suspect.

Detectives said Bennett's attacker may have exhibited heavy interest in sexual activity involving bondage, use of restraints or role playing. They emphasize that does not mean Bennett had ever been involved in those activities or that the activities are evidence in her murder.

"Most crimes such as this begin as a fantasy in someone's mind," said Lt. Chris Morgan, of the Raleigh Police Department. "The tendency of people who commit this type of offense is to have acted out this fantasy in the past, possibly or likely, with a consensual partner involved."

Detectives said it is likely that the suspect has engaged in these activities in the recent past, prior to or after the murder.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to call Raleigh police at (919) 890-3951.

"We feel like someone out there has the information we need to solve this case," Morgan said.

A combined reward of $10,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for Bennett's murder.