MINNEAPOLIS — The Minneapolis Police Department is investigating multiple sexual assaults and attempted sexual assaults in the Marcy-Holmes and Dinkytown neighborhoods.
According to officials, the investigation has been ongoing for several years and they're asking for the public's help locating a suspect -- a male between the ages of 30 and 50 years old, approximately 5-foot-7 to 6-foot, has a medium or athletic build and may have facial hair.
Police say their investigation indicates that the suspect is familiar with the neighborhoods and appears to be targeting women.
Police advise people, especially in these neighborhoods, to be vigilant and, if possible, to not walk alone.
"We want people to be aware of their surroundings, particularly when they're in parking lot areas, when they're going in and out of their cars, when they're taking out their garbage and being around dumpsters," said Minneapolis Deputy Chief Erick Fors. "Areas that are somewhat secluded and are off the normal pathway, we want people to be aware of their surroundings when they're walking by themselves."
Fors said that additional resources are being used, including posting flyers, increasing the number of patrol units and "executing ongoing investigative initiatives."
Anyone with information is encouraged to call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Tips may also be submitted at www.CrimeStoppersMN.org.
All tips are anonymous and providing information that leads to an arrest may result in a financial reward, according to police.