Police release sketch of sexual-assault suspect
Authorities have released a sketch of a man wanted in connection with the sexual assault and robbery of a woman near downtown Palo Alto early Monday.
The attack occurred on the 100 block of Everett Avenue about 4:10 a.m., according to Palo Alto police.
Police said the suspect asked the victim for spare change and hit her twice — once on the back and once on the back of the head — when she reached into her parked car to get money. He then allegedly sexually assaulted her.
When the vict im screamed and fought back, the suspect grabbed her wallet and left the area on foot, according to police. He was last seen heading north on Emerson Street.
The victim described the suspect as white, in his late 20s to early 30s and 5 feet 11 inches tall with a skinny build. His hair was brown or dirty blond, long and straight. He also had an unkempt beard and was last seen wearing a beanie with a pompom on top.
Similar attacks have been reported in Palo Alto in recent weeks. On Dec. 20, a man pushed a woman into the bushes on Castilleja Avenue and punched her in the face. A second attack occurred Dec. 29, when a man pushed a woman to the ground on El Camino Real and touched her genitals over her clothing. Authorities have arrested suspects in both cases.
Anyone with information about the cases can contact police at 650-3292413. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call or text 650- 383- 8984 or email paloalto@tipnow.org.