Police issue alert following string of sex assaults in the Annex area
Posted August 30, 2012 6:43 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
TORONTO, Ont. – There have been a string of sexual assaults in the Bloor and Christie streets area over the past two months, with police worried they could escalate.
Police are concerned the six sex assaults could all have been done by one man, and have issued an alert to residents and anyone passing through that area.
The attacks, to this point, have involved the suspect grabbing and groping the victim, but police warn they could become more violent.
All six victims were approached from behind at night in and around the Annex and Kensington Market area.
One victim, only 16-years-old, was grabbed as she walked near Bloor and Christie streets.
A woman named Hazel who lives in that area told 680News reporter Carl Hanstke she is on alert.
“Yeah, that’s why I’ve been paying attention to what’s going on,” Hazel said.
“You were looking at me as I was coming toward you?” Hanstke asked.
“Yeah, I was thinking okay, I’m going to cross the road, so yeah, I am wary,” Hazel responded.
The suspect is described as a black male, 25-to-40-years-old, 6’0″ tall with short black hair and wearing black clothing.
The victims reportedly range in age from 16 to 26.
Police are asking anyone who believes they may have seen someone matching the description to contact them.
“I think the best thing for everybody is to just remain aware and be aware of your surroundings. If they see anything suspicious, if they feel like something isn’t right, call 9-1-1,” said Detective Constable Phillip Campbell.
An information session will be held Thursday night in Kensington Market.
Police presence in the area has been increased.
