Police Seeking Suspect After Indecent Assault Reported Near Jamaica Pond

JAMAICA PLAIN, MA — The Boston Police Sexual Assault Unit is investigating a reported assault near Jamaica Pond, and it's seeking the public's help tracking down the alleged perpetrator.

According to a Boston Police press release, the incident occurred around 10 p.m. Thursday while the victim and a companion were walking on the Jamaica Way side of the pond. An unknown man allegedly approached the victim and indecently assaulted her.

The victim described the suspect as a black male, 250-300lbs, approximately 6 feet tall with a beard. He was believed to be wearing a baseball hat, grey t-shirt and long pants. The suspect fled the area after the assault.

The Boston Police Sexual Assault Unit is actively reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with any information is asked to call detectives directly at (617) 343-4400.

Community members wanting to assist this investigation anonymously can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1(800)494-TIPS or by texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently guard and protect the identities of all those who wish to help this investigation anonymously.

Additionally, the BPD offered a series of tips to decrease and diminish the likelihood of an attack, while noting "no victim is ever to blame for the actions of an attacker."

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep your head up. Make quick eye contact with those around you and when possible try to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas.
• When possible, walk with friends and people you know especially late at night.
• Avoid the distractions created when talking on a cell phone or listening to an iPod/similar device. Avoid wearing ear buds or headphones in both ears.
• If you believe someone is following you, change direction, cross the street, seek a populated location and call 911.
• Remember descriptive information about the person following you to report to the police.
• If confronted, believe in your ability to fight back and defend yourself. Creating distance and yelling words like: “fire”, “help” or “rape” are effective ways of drawing attention and alerting people that you need help.
• Keep your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon to ward off an attack.
• Trust your instincts and understand that anyone at any time can be a victim of crime. Never assume: “It won’t ever happen to me.