Police & Fire

Boston Police Investigate Report of Indecent Assault in the North End

Community Alert from Boston Police Informational Services:

Boston Police Investigate Report of Indecent Assault in the North End
BPD Asks Community to Increase Vigilance

Boston Police recently received a report that on Friday, March 30, 2012, at 11:45pm a female victim was approached in the area of Prince Street in the North End and indecently assaulted by a male suspect. The female victim reports that she was walking in the area of Prince Street when a male suspect approached her and engaged in inappropriate contact.

The suspect is described as a white, Mediterranean or Hispanic male, late 20′s to early 30′s, approximately 5’6’’- 5’-8’’, medium build with short dark hair and a goatee. The suspect is also described as “well-groomed” and wearing a dark-colored, hip length wool coat , jeans, possibly a dark shirt and dark shoes.

Boston Police District A-1 is increasing patrols to the area. Investigators from the Sexual Assault Unit are conducting witness interviews and seeking additional information from the community. The Boston Police Department also takes this opportunity to remind community members to increase vigilance and report any suspicious persons in the area. Residents should take extra precautions and be aware of surroundings. District A-1 is offering two seminars: a RAD class (self-defense training) and a ‘Reducing Your Odds’ education course (provides residents tips on how to avoid crime victimization). Community members interested in taking either class should contact the Community Service Office at 617-343-4627.

Individuals with information about this incident are encouraged to contact the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).

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 1-800-841-8371.

Personal Safety Tips:

• 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.

Further questions, contact:

Sergeant Tom Lema
District A-1, Community Service Supervisor
40 New Sudbury St., Boston, MA 02114
Tel. #617-343-4627, FAX #617-343-6331
Lemat.bpd@cityofboston.gov

Captain Thomas F. Lee
Commander, District A-1

Elaine Driscoll
Director of Communications, Boston Police Department
For Boston Police news and information, please visit BPDNews.com.