PINECREST, Fla. – Pinecrest police officers are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who they said physically assaulted a woman while she was out walking Tuesday morning.
According to police, the assault occurred around 7:30 a.m. in the 13000 block of Southwest 69th Court.
Police said the perpetrator was riding a light blue bicycle and carrying a purple bag with a shoulder strap when he approached the victim from behind, grabbed her in a “bear hug” and then touched her inappropriately.
According to authorities, the victim cried out for help and the man released her.
He then fled the scene, heading south on the bicycle, authorities said.
“He grabs her from behind in what was described as a bear hug, and in the process he touches her inappropriately. She immediately screams and fights back,” Pinecrest Police Chief Jason Cohen explained. “He releases her and he runs off, grabs his bike and flees the area. So she was unharmed -- physically unharmed -- so lucky for that. She did exactly what anybody in a situation like this should do – fight back.”
Noon report:
According to authorities, the bike was found about 10 minutes later, abandoned in the area of Southwest 138th Street and 77th Avenue.
The perpetrator was described by police as a tall man of an unknown race, who was wearing a black and white cap, blue jeans, a dark-colored shirt and dark-colored shoes.
Anyone who recognizes him is asked to call the Pinecrest Police Department at 305-234-2100 or Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.