A man suspected of recently grabbing the buttocks of at least five young women in the Long Beach area is being sought by the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD), officials announced.
Authorities seek the public’s help in identifying a Hispanic man described as 25 to 35 years old, 160 to 180 pounds and five feet, six inches to five feet, eight inches tall with a stocky/chunky build. He is said to have black/brown hair about two inches in length, brown eyes and is clean-shaven.
According to police, On Wednesday, May 27, between 8:00PM to 11:00PM, four women in three separate incidents were groped on the buttocks while walking down the street in the general area of Redondo Avenue, between Ocean Boulevard and First Street.
On Friday, June 5, at about 1:30AM, a fifth woman was walking home near Florida Street and Hermosa Avenue, when she was approached from behind and groped on the buttocks by a man on foot, officials said.
The suspect immediately walked away or ran off in a different direction, after each incident.
Authorities believe the suspect is responsible for these assaults because of the crimes’ nature, the locations and the age of the victims (all in their 20s), as well as his physical description.
Police advise residents to stay safe by having their cell phone in an easily accessible location, be alert of their surroundings and travel with a friend whenever possible.
Other tips include:
- Report suspicious activity immediately by calling 911
- Be aware of locations and situations which could make you vulnerable, such as alleys, dark parking lots and dim walkways
- Paying too much attention to an electronic device (cell phone, iPod, etc.) can make you a target
- Wearing earbuds prevents you from hearing what is happening around you
- Stay in well-lighted areas whenever possible
- Avoid doorways, bushes, and alleys where someone could hide
- Walk confidently and at a steady pace, and make eye contact with people
- Keep your keys in your hand when walking to your vehicle
- If you feel you are being followed, get to a public place as quickly as possible or get other people’s attention
Anyone who has any information regarding these incidents, or recognizes the individual depicted in the sketch is urged to contact Long Beach Police Sex Crimes Detective Luis Galvan at 562.570.7368 or 562.570.6711. Anonymous tips may be submitted by calling 1.800.222.TIPS (8477), texting TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or visiting www.lacrimestoppers.org.
Above, left: Photo courtesy of LBPD.
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