Boston Police on Monday issued an alert about an indecent assault that took place Monday morning in the area of Chestnut Avenue and Paul Gore Street.
Below is the entire text of the alert, including tips from police on how reduce your chance of becoming a victim:
Community Alert: BPD Seeking Public’s Help in Effort to Identify Suspect Wanted in Connection to Indecent Assault in Jamaica Plain: At about 10:24am, on Monday, March 14, 2016, officers from District E-13 (Jamaica Plain) responded to a call for an indecent assault in the area of 127 Chestnut Ave in Jamaica Plain. On arrival, officers spoke to the victim who stated that she was walking along Chestnut Ave when the suspect grabbed her indecently. Victim describes the suspect as a male in his early to mid-thirties with a dark complexion, approximately 5’8” to 5’11” tall, 160 to 180 lbs, wearing all black clothing.
The Boston Police Sexual Assault Unit is actively reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with any information is asked to call detectives directly at (617) 343-4400.
Community members wishing to assist this investigation anonymously can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1(800) 494-TIPS or by texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently guard and protect the identities of those who wish to help this investigation anonymously.
Tips for Ensuring Your Personal Safety:
- Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. When parking, walking or returning to your car, remain in well-lit and populated areas.
- When possible, walk with friends and people you know late at night.
- Be watchful and aware. Keep your head up. Make quick eye contact with those around you and be observant of passing vehicles.
- Don’t become distracted by talking on a cell phone or listening to an iPod/similar device.
- Keep a whistle within reach. If you feel threatened, use it to signal residents that you need help.
- Yelling words like: “Fire!” “Help!” or “Rape!” are other effective ways of drawing attention and alerting people that you need assistance.
- Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.
- Before going out, call ahead to let friends or family know you’re on the way. Designate a time you expect to arrive, so that in the event you fail to show up on time, they’ll know enough to begin looking for you.
- Walk with confidence. Be assertive. Don’t let anyone violate your space. Trust your instincts and know that anyone at any time can be a victim of crime. Never assume: “It will never happen to me.”
- If an unarmed attacker confronts you, believe in your ability to scare, distract, or even incapacitate the attacker enough to escape.
- Wear sneakers or shoes that allow for added mobility.