Modesto Police Searching For Suspect Attacking Women

MODESTO (CBS13) - Modesto police officers are searching for man who has reportedly been stalking women and sexually assaulting them.

A resident called police on Tuesday to report a black male adult was following women on the Virginia Corridor near Stoddard Avenue. Officers checked the area but were unable to locate the suspect. The man was described as having an "Afro" hairstyle. He was wearing a blue and black striped shirt.

Police were already investigating two sexual assaults committed near the pedestrian foot bridge that crosses W. Briggsmore Avenue. Both assaults took place on Jan. 18.

According to police, the first incident occurred at about 3:57 p.m. when a woman was running along the Virginia Corridor. As she approached the foot bridge, she noticed a black man running behind her. He caught up to her and wrapped his arms around her.

The suspect started fondling the woman and she repeatedly told him to leave her alone. The woman was able to escape and she began yelling to get attention. The suspect distanced himself from the woman and walked away.

The suspect was described as being in his late teens, about 5 feet, 7 inches tall with a slim build. He had an Afro with long sideburns. He was wearing a large brown sweater, black jeans, headphones and was carrying a backpack.

The second incident reportedly took place on the south end of the pedestrian bridge at about 6:14 p.m. A woman was running along the Virginia Corridor when she was grabbed by the suspect. The suspect fondled the victim until she was able to shove him off.

The suspect fled and was last seen heading west on Granger Avenue. The suspect's physical description and clothing matched the one from the earlier assault.

Investigators believe all three incidents are related.

Police ask anyone who may have information regarding these incidents to call Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward. Tipsters can also text information to Crime Stoppers by sending a text message to 274637. Type "TIP704" along with the message.