Woman Grabbed, Sexually Assaulted On Greenway: Sheriff's Office

CUMMING, GA — The Forsyth County Sheriff's Office is warning the public to be cautious and aware when using the Greenway trail after a woman was sexually assaulted earlier this week while walking.

The FCSO received a report July 17 from a female running on the Greenway near McFarland Parkway. She said she was inappropriately touched by a male who was also walking on the Greenway, the department said. The man reportedly grabbed her buttocks while she was walking, sexually assaulting her, the Sheriff's Office said.

The incident occurred in the morning and the Sheriff's Office said there were no injuries.

The suspect was described as a black male in his mid 30s, with a muscular build, 5’10” and clean-shaven. He was wearing a blue or gray T-shirt, navy or black shorts and a gray baseball hat with tennis shoes, the department said.

"We are currently investigating this as a criminal incident, and we have added extra patrols to the Greenway and the parking lots," the FCSO said on Facebook. "Expect to see an increased presence in the area. This is an unfortunate but timely opportunity to remind Greenway users to consider the buddy system as well as to be vigilant of their surroundings and security. As always, please report any suspicious persons or activities."

The Big Creek Greenway in Forsyth County is a 12-foot wide concrete and boardwalk path meandering through the deciduous woods along the Big Creek.

Phases 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the Big Creek Greenway located in Forsyth County span from McFarland Parkway to Kelly Mill Road for approximately 9.6 miles. When the future Phase 5 is complete, the Greenway will span approximately 15 miles in Forsyth County.

In Alpharetta, the trail is 8 miles and runs from Windward Parkway to Mansell Road.

Safety Tips

• Use the trail only during permitted.
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle.
• Stay on the trail surface.
• Stop, look and yield to traffic at crossings.
• Cyclists and skaters should wear helmets.
• Visitors are encouraged to use the buddy system and use the trail in pairs or groups.