Teens Biking Emerald Necklace Sexually Assault Woman, Steal Phone

BROOKLINE, MA — Over the weekend two women reported separately that a group of boys riding up and down the Emerald Necklace sexually assaulted one and snatched the other's cell phone.

Police were called to Pond Avenue around 2:45 p.m. Sunday by two women reporting separate incidents involving a group of about four or five boys between the ages of 12 and 15. In the first report, a woman said the boys rode by and at least one of them slapped her on her butt. She screamed and told the young men she was calling the police. That prompted them to ride off, according to police.

Shortly after that, the same group rode past another woman, according to police. One of the bikers waved his hand close to the woman's face, distracting her and then another snatched her cell phone. Police said they believe the one who took the phone matched the description of the young man who reportedly sexually assaulted the other woman.

Lt. Phil Harrington, a spokesperson for the department said anyone with information about the group of boys or the events should reach out to Brookline Police at 617-730-2222.

Indecent assault and battery on a person aged 14 or older is a criminal offense under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265 Section 13H. An indecent assault and battery in the state is considered an intentional and unjustified or unwanted touching of a private area, including the breast, abdomen, thigh, buttocks, genital or pubic areas of a female or the buttocks, genital or pubic areas of a male, according to Find Law.

If you are convicted of indecent assault and battery on a person aged 14 or older, you face imprisonment in the state prison for up to five years or imprisonment in a jail or house of correction for up to two and one-half years. You will be requested to register as a sex offender.

Patch reporter Jenna Fisher can be reached at Jenna.Fisher@patch.com or by calling 617-942-0474. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram (@ReporterJenna).