Willard Hay and Jordan Neighborhoods August 21, 2008
Facts:
In the past week, three sexual assaults have occurred in the area of 26th and Oliver/Thomas Aves. N. These assaults occurred between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m., outdoors in the alley or between garages. The suspect threatened the victims with a handgun. It is believed that it was the same suspect in all three assaults.
Suspect information:
The suspect is described as a black male approximately 22-30 years of age, with a medium complexion and light to medium build.
What you can do:
• Turn on your outdoor lights. If there are lights out in your neighborhood, call 311 if it is a city light (on a metal pole), or 1-800-960-6235 for an Xcel Energy light (wooden pole).
• Stay alert to your surroundings. Be aware of who is ahead of you and who is behind you. If you use an iPod or other earphones, keep the sound to a minimum to help you hear people approaching.
• Trust your feelings and act on them. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or a situation, leave.
• Don’t get out of your vehicle or leave your home if you see someone who appears threatening or suspicious. Be aware of vehicles idling nearby or strangers sitting in vehicles or loitering. When approaching your car or house have your car or house key in your hand.
• If you are out at night:
1. use the buddy system
2. travel in well-used areas
3. walk and jog in well-lit areas
• Use strong body language by walking with confidence and purpose, head up.
• If you think someone is following you, switch directions and walk to a lighted home or where there are other people.
• Keep distance between yourself and a potential attacker by walking or running away and/or placing obstacles between you (car, bus shelter, etc.).
• Draw attention to yourself or a potential attacker by using loud verbal commands, a screech alarm, or both.
• Call 911 immediately to report any cries for help.
• Report any incidents of criminal sexual conduct.
In you have any information about these crimes, please contact Minneapolis Sex Crimes, Investigation Division at (612) 673-2941.