Sheriff Seeks Man Attacking Homeless Women Around USF

TAMPA, FL -- The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is seeking help from the public to identify a man who has attacked at least two homeless women in the University of South Florida area.

On Aug. 5 at about 10:20 p.m., a man attacked a homeless woman who was sleeping on the sidewalk in front of a business at 1402 Bearss Ave. He first asked her for sex and, when she refused, he grabbed her. She managed to break free and run away.

Detectives believe this incident is related to another attack that occurred on April 5 at about 11 p.m. near the intersection of Skipper Road and Nebraska Avenue off the railroad tracks.

A homeless woman said she was walking along the CSX Railroad tracks when she was attacked and sexually battered.

The man is described as black, clean cut and muscular with large calves. He is believed to be between the ages of 35 to 40, approximately 6 feet 2 to 6 feet 4 inches tall, 225 to 250 pounds with a bumpy scar underneath his left eye.

The suspect, who is not believed to be homeless, was last seen wearing a polo shirt, white shorts and white Nike tennis shoes. He was riding a white bicycle with thin tires and a red flashing light on the back.

Detectives have created a composite image of the suspect based on descriptions from victims.

Anyone who recognizes the him is asked to call the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office at 813-247-8200.

Image via Hillsborough Sheriff