Boston Police Seek Help Locating Sexual Assault Suspects

Boston Police are asking for the public’s help in an effort to identify the suspect(s) responsible for a string of recent sexual assaults. The incidents took place in the South Boston area, but police are reaching out to all Bostonians in order to broaden their investigation.

In three separate incidents, which date back to July 16, each female victim told police the attacker approached from behind and touched them in an inappropriate way on the buttocks.

Each victim’s description of the suspect varies slightly, but they each say the suspect was a hispanic male in his 20s.

The first incident was reported on July 16, around 1:30 a.m. in the area of Farragut Road and East First Street.

The second incident took place on September 5, around 3 a.m., in the area of Mayhew and Boston Streets.

The third incident took place on September 16, around 1:20 a.m., in the area of Mayhew and Boston Streets.

The Boston Police Department shared the following tips to ensure personal safety:

• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. When parking, walking or returning to your car, remain in well-lit and populated areas.
• Avoid walking alone late at night. When possible, walk with friends and people you know.
• Be watchful and aware. Keep your head up. Make quick eye contact with those around you and be observant of passing vehicles.
• Don’t become distracted by talking on a cell phone or listening to an iPod/similar device.
• Keep a whistle within reach. If you feel threatened, use it to signal residents that you need help. Yelling words like: “Fire!” “Help!” or “Rape!” are other effective ways of drawing attention and alerting people that you need assistance.
• Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.
• Before going out, call ahead to let friends or family know you’re on the way. Designate a time you expect to arrive, so that in the event you fail to show up on time, they’ll know enough to begin looking for you.
• Walk with confidence. Be assertive. Don’t let anyone violate your space. Trust your instincts and know that anyone at any time can be a victim of crime. Never assume: “IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME.”
• If an unarmed attacker confronts you, believe in your ability to scare, distract, or even incapacitate the attacker enough to escape.
• Wear sneakers or shoes that allow for added mobility.

The Boston Police Sexual Assault Unit is actively reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding these incidents.

Anyone with any information is asked to call detectives directly at (617) 343-4400.