By Carol McCracken  (Post # 2,385)

A 34-year-old woman reported being sexually assaulted earlier today while walking on the Back Cove trail.  The victim said she was in the vicinity of the half mile marker behind she soccer field and adjacent to Interstate 295 when she was assaulted around 12:15 pm.

The perpetrator grabbed the woman and dragged her off the path and into an area of high grass and brush where he sexually assaulted her.  He fled on foot when two people passing by noticed something and asked if everything was alright.  The victim  drove herself to a local hospital and police were notified.

The perpetrator is described as a while male in his late 20’s or early 30’s with dark hair and a goatee. He is between 6’01” and 6’03” tall with an average build.He was wearing shiny orange shorts and a dark color tank top shirt.  He had no visible tattoos.

Anyone who was in the area and may have witnessed this incident or a suspect matching the description is asked to call police at 207 – 874-8575.  Officers will be providing increased bicycle patrols.  The public is reminded to carry a cell phone and report any suspicious activity according to a press release issued by the Portland Police Department this evening.

It is best to walk in groups, be aware of the surroundings and if confronted be as vocal as possible and draw attention to yourself.

editor’s note:  Would it be possible for the City of Portland to keep the grass well cut in public areas that have a lot of foot traffic and yet are vulnerable to behavior of this sort?