Sexual Assault Pattern Under Investigation In Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia Police are investigating a series of sexual assaults and say they believe the incidents follow a pattern.

These incidents happened between July 18 and Sunday.

Authorities said the pattern is based on modus operandi, offender description, and geographic proximity

Below are details on the five reported incents:

• July 18, 6:40 a.m., 1900 block of Spruce Street — Complainant states she was walking her dog when the offender approached and sexually assaulted her.
• July 19 3:13 a.m., 2000 block of Delancey Street — Complainant states she was attempting to enter her apartment building when an unknown offender approached and sexually assaulted her.
• Aug. 2, 8:15 a.m., 1600 block of Waverly Street — Complainant states the offender approached her from behind, reached over her shoulder, and sexually assaulted her.
• Aug. 3, 1 a.m., 400 block of South 15th Street — Complainant states that while walking to her car, the offender approached her from behind and sexually assaulted her.
• Aug. 3, 12:30 a.m., 2500 block of Webster Street — Complainant states that while unlocking her front door, an unknown male walked up from behind and sexually assaulted her.

Police described the suspect as a black man between 5 feet 11 inches tall and 6 feet tall, with long dreadlocks/twists/braids, sometimes worn in a ponytail.

Anyone with information on these incidents should contact Philadelphia Police at 215-686-8477.