Search for Suspect in Sex Assault Continues, Police Advise Caution on Trails

are still searching for a man who reportedly an 18-year-old female on the nature trails located behind last week.

Police advise caution for regular hikers of the scenic trails, which include the 26-acre Ketchum Preserve. The wooded area owned by the church, called the glebe, features a rustic outdoor chapel.

"Many of the trails in the area are isolated," said Bedford Police Lieutenant Jeffrey Dickan. "Residents should try not to put themselves in secluded areas alone."

The young woman was walking her dog on the wooded trails just north of the glebe when the assault took place, police said. After the assault, she was able to exit the woods onto St. Matthew's property and contact police. She was taken to Northern Westchester Hospital for treatment, and released.

When asked if he had any concerns about church-goers who may frequent the outdoor chapel, the Rev. Terry Elsberry, rector at St. Matthew's, said he learned that the assault did not happen near the chapel nor on church property. "We always advise people to exercise caution when walking in the woods," he said.

The young woman's assailant was unknown to her, Dickan said.

Police released a description of the suspect on Friday afternoon. He is described as a suntanned white male, approximately 50 years of age, 6' 2" and 220 pounds. He was wearing a heather gray tee-shirt and light-colored jeans, with dark shoes. The man has salt-and-pepper hair and a "well-groomed," full beard.

Police are asking anyone who may have been in the area or with any information to call (914) 241-3111. All calls will be kept confidential.

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