At least three women have come forward to warn other women that a man grabbed and groped them in separate attacks at the Silver Lake Reservoir.
Police are on a search for the man after the women reported their attacks on social media. The disturbing attacks have happened in recent months, prompting warning signs to be posted around the popular spot and officers to step up patrols.
One woman who was targeted by the man shared her story in hopes of bringing awareness to the issue. The woman, who identified herself only as Sabrina out of fear for her safety, said she was attacked at about 8 p.m. on April 13.
“As I cut through the meadow, I thought that I was alone, and then this man ran up behind me, grabbed me, groped me,” the woman said. “And then as I turned to like scream or do something, he ran away.”
The Los Angeles Police Department said it’s aware of the attacks and said two other groping assaults were reported by different women. One attack took place on March 25 and the other on April 18, according to the department. In both incidents, the man approached the women from behind and groped their breast area, then ran off.
In an effort to either capture the attacker or to curb the attacks altogether, police officers have stepped up their presence at the reservoir.
“Not only have we deployed extra patrol resource to the area when those patrol officers have discretionary time, but we’re also using our senior lead officers to get out there and do foot patrols,” LAPD Capt. Mike Bland said.
The captain added that the department deployed officers through various shifts to maintain high visibility throughout the day.
Police said the attacker is described as a man with a large build. Anyone who has been victimized by the man or who has information on his identity is encouraged to contact police.
Information can be shared with law enforcement by contacting LAPD Sexual Assault Detective Supervisor, Michelle Gomez at 323-561-3272. Anonymous tips can be made by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.