SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) - Police have released a sketch of a man who, they said, attacked and groped a woman in a Southwest Miami-Dade neighborhood in what was described as an attempted sexual battery case that has led to concern among area residents.
According to Miami-Dade Police, the 55-year-old victim was out for a jog near a lake in the area of Southwest 96th Street and 148th Place at around 9:30 a.m., Saturday.
Detectives said the subject, a man in his 20s, approached her from behind and covered her mouth.
“That’s when he started touching her chest and her private areas,” said MDPD detective Argemis Colome. “Fortunately, she was able to fight him off, and that’s when she was able to call police.”
Area resident Ernesto Cabrara said he heard the victim.
“I heard her screams,” he said.
Cabrara said he found the woman moments later.
“I just tried to calm her down. She told me briefly what happened,” he said. “The guy approached her from the back and fondled her in a sexual manner.”
When detectives showed up, she was able to give them enough information for them to draw a clear sketch.
Nearby residents said the incident have caused them to be on edge.
“I would be traumatized. It would be traumatizing,” said Paula DeArmas.
DeArmas said she also jogs in the area, and hearing there is a predator on the loose has her rethinking her own safety.
“Right now, I’m with my mom, because I’m scared of being alone,” she said.
“That area, towards the lake, it’s dark. It’s secluded in the morning,” said area resident Stan Hodes. “My wife and I were talking last night about being more careful when we walk this area.”
Police have distributed a flyer with a sketch of the subject.
Investigators said he stands about 6 feet, 1 inch tall and was wearing a long-sleeve shirt and blue jogging pants.
Cabrara said he hopes the man is caught so he and his neighbors can regain their sense of security.
“It’s just sad. It’s a great place to walk around, and now for the neighbors to be fearful that something may happen, it’s just sad,” he said.
If you have any information on this incident that could help police, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.
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