Champaign police are currently seeking the public’s assistance in locating a suspect believed to be involved in two reported sexual abuse cases.
On July 15, 2010, at 8:29 p.m., a 21 year-old female was walking in the area of Fourth and John Streets, when a Hispanic male approached her on a bicycle asking for directions. As the victim provided directions, the suspect groped her and solicited her for sex. As the victim walked away, the suspect fondled her a second time. The suspect left the scene and police were immediately contacted. The suspect was last seen wearing a white t-shirt and red headphones.
On July 16, 2010, at approximately 3:25 p.m., two 14 year-old girls were walking near 45 E. University Avenue when approached by a man on a bicycle. The man extended his hand and fondled one of the girls while riding past them. The suspect left the area and police were immediately contacted.
The suspect is described as a 25-35 y/o Hispanic male, 5’0″ – 5’11”, 130-160 lbs, black hair, brown eyes and significant facial stubble. He was wearing a dark baseball cap with writing and the hair visible outside of the cap was shaven. The suspect also wore a sky blue polo shirt with embroidered writing on the left chest area and tan-colored cargo shorts. The bicycle was reported to be dark-colored with “thin” tires on a “regular” frame (not a mountain bike or racing bike).
Safety tips for pedestrians:
1. Be alert to your surroundings at all times, especially when approached by strangers. Travel in pairs, when possible.
2. Make a note of the suspect’s physical description, clothing, facial features, marks or tattoos, color of vehicle, bicycle, etc.
3. Promptly notify police if approached by the suspect.
Information can reported to the Champaign Police Department by calling (217) 351-4545 or callers can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 373-TIPS. Information can also be sent by anonymous web tip by going to: www.373tips.com or by text tip: Tip397 plus the information to CRIMES (274637).