An image released by police of the suspect wanted in Saturday’s home invasion and sexual assault in the area of Joy and Myrtle streets.
Police are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect wanted for a home invasion and sexual assault in the area of Joy and Myrtle streets early Saturday morning.
At about 3:15 a.m. on Nov. 10, District A-1 officers responded to a call for a sexual assault. On arrival, police spoke to the victim, who stated that an unknown suspect forced his way into her apartment, displayed a weapon (possibly a knife) and robbed her before sexually assaulting her.
The suspect is described as a black male with braided hair, 5-feet 8-inches in height and late 20s to early 30s in age, with a medium complexion. He was wearing a “do rag” type cap, a tan-colored, three-quarters-length construction type jacket, dark jeans and dark sneakers, and was believed to be carrying a large blue backpack, police said.
Investigators are asking anyone who may have been in the area between the hours of 2 and 3:30 a.m. Saturday to contact the Boston Police Sexual Assault Unit at 617-343-4400. Community members wanting to assist this investigation anonymously are encouraged to call the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 800-494-TIPS or text the word “TIP” to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department stringently guards and protects the identities of those who wish to remain anonymous.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a sexual assault and is in need of helpful resources, please contact the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center 24-hour hotline at 800-841-8371.
The police have also released a list of personal safety tips for women in the area to help keep them safe until the suspect is caught. Police are recommending the following;
• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. When parking, walking or returning to your car, remain in well-lit and populated areas.
• Wear sneakers or shoes that allow for added mobility.
• 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.
• Avoid walking alone late at night. Walk with friends and people you know.
• Keep a whistle within reach. If you feel threatened, use the whistle to signal residents that you need assistance.
• Yelling “Fire!” “Help!” and/or “Rape!” are ways of drawing attention and alerting people that you need help.
• Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.
• Carry a cell phone.
• Call ahead to your destination to alert them that you’re on your way. Make sure they expect you at a certain time, so that in the event you fail to show up, they’ll know enough to begin looking for you.
• Walk with confidence. Be assertive. Don’t let anyone violate your space. Trust your instincts. Know this: anyone at any time can be a victim of crime. Don’t 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.
• If you think that someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant or residence.