Sketch Of Westfield Home Invasion, Sex Assault Suspect Released

WESTFIELD, NJ — The Union County Prosecutor's Office released a sketch of the suspect wanted in Tuesday's burglary and sexual assault reported on Longfellow Avenue.

Officials had been hesitant over the past few days to release information about the suspects they were considering as the UCPO said "the case is continually and rapidly developing." Thursday officials released the sketch.

One woman was injured during the incident, officials said it was non-life threatening.

Anyone who may know the person in the sketch or has any information about the incident is urged to contact Union County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Annie Coll at 908-347-2474 or Westfield Police Department Detective Betsy Savnik at 908-789-6078. Members of the public are strongly discouraged from approaching or confronting any individuals they believe to resemble the suspect composite, but are instead advised to contact members of law enforcement.

The Union County Prosecutor's Office is offering up to a $10,000 reward for tips that result in an indictment and conviction. Tips can be submitted anonymously by phone at 908-654-TIPS (8477) or online at www.uctip.org.

In a joint statement issued yesterday from Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle and Police Chief Christopher Batiloro, officials said, "Of course, this report has created fear and uncertainty in our community, and rest assured we will continue to dedicate every possible resource to this case and to the safety of our residents. A significantly enhanced police presence has been established and additional patrols have also been deployed throughout Town as this investigation continues."

Westfield Councilman Mark LoGrippo joined the call to find the suspect, posting the sketch on his Facebook with the note, "This past Tuesday afternoon a Westfield resident was violently sexually assaulted in her own home. Please read below for additional information as the suspect has not been caught."