Photos: Suspect Dragged Sex Assault Victim From Bus Stop, Cops Say

Police released photos Wednesday of the suspect they believe is responsible for a sex assault that occurred just a few blocks south of Wicker Park's border.

The incident occurred in the early morning hours of Tuesday, July 8, in the 1000 block of North Western Avenue, near the street's intersection with Augusta, police said.

"The … offender attacked the victim in a bus stop enclosure, then dragged her into an adjacent gangway where he beat and sexually assaulted her," the alert says.

Investigators released surveillance photos of the offender, who is photographed making a purchase at a nearby gas station. He's described as a black man between the ages of 19 and 26 years old. He's about 5 feet 10 inches, police say, and weighs 160 to 180 pounds.

The suspect has a dark brown complexion, is clean shaven and was wearing diamond studded earrings in both ears. He also had on a green T-shirt, shorts, black shoes and a black head scarf.

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Local Ald. Scott Waguespack (32nd) sent a newsletter Wednesday urging residents to be mindful of their surroundings. He included the following list of reminders:

• Walk in pairs or groups.
• Always be aware of your surroundings.
• Report suspicious activity immediately.
• If you are confronted by an assailant, remain calm.
• Remember any unique physical characteristics (scars, limp, acne, teeth, etc ...)
• Never pursue a fleeing assailant; provide the information to the police.
• If approached by a witness to the incident, request contact information.
• Dial 911 immediately and remain on scene, when possible.