The incidents, which occurred between mid-July and most recently on Tuesday, Sept. 2, involve a male masturbating in the river valley area below Saskatchewan Drive on the trail system near the Kinsmen Sports Centre.
Incidents have occurred on both sides of the North Saskatchewan River, between the Dudley B Menzies Bridge and 105 Street. The suspect’s behaviour has recently escalated to include following some of the female complainants, before exposing himself and attempting to grab and/or groping them. Most of the incidents have occurred between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
The suspect is described as a tanned or dark-skinned male, between 5’4” and 5’9” tall and 30 to 40 years of age. He has a slim build, short or shaved dark hair and facial hair or beard stubble. Police have stepped up patrols throughout the area.
Investigators are cautioning women who frequent that area or use the trail system to carry a cell phone or communication device with them, travel together with others, when possible, and inform family and/or friends of your plans and timelines for return.
Anyone who may have information about these incidents or a potential suspect is encouraged to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.
The Edmonton Police Service Sexual Assault Section is investigating a series of 11 indecent acts that have occurred in and around the city’s river valley over the last several weeks.