Suspect physically, sexually assaulted victim in south Charlotte

CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is asking for public help in finding the suspect in a recent sexual assault case.

The victim told Channel 9′s Hunter Sáenz that her car broke down on West Woodlawn Road around 12:45 a.m. on Wednesday.

She said as she was walking to meet her boyfriend a man started following her. She then climbed through a fence near Ramada Plaza as she heard footsteps behind her.

According to CMPD, that is when the suspect physically and sexually assaulted her.

CMPD said the assault was random. However, the victim said she had seen the suspect around before and he had made inappropriate comments towards her.

Police say the victim fought back, injuring the suspect’s face and neck. The suspect may have scratches on his face.

The suspect is described as 5′10″, mid 20′s, with short dark hair and wearing a dark-colored baseball cap, light-colored shirt, camouflage shorts, and a floral-patterned neck gaiter.

Channel 9 spoke with Lena Escobar who spends time in the area helping those who are struggling with drug abuse and homelessness.

She said she always felt safe but will now she will be on the lookout.

“Be aware of my surroundings. If at any point I feel uncomfortable, I am packing up and moving to another area,” Escobar said.

Police said they have boosted patrols in the corridor in hopes of catching the suspect.

Anyone with the identity of the suspect is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or charlottecrimestoppers.com.

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