Lakewood PD Asks For Help Identifying Sexual Assault Suspect

LAKEWOOD, WA — Police are asking the public to help identify a suspect who they say is behind a pair of sexual assaults at parks around Lakewood.

According to the Lakewood Police Department, the man's whole spree took place on June 3.

First, at around 6: 45 p.m. a woman reported seeing a man masturbating in the corner of the park near Pierce College. As she ran by him, he slapped her behind.

Then, shortly afterwards at 7:15 p.m. a woman was walking on the wooded trails of Fort Steilacoom Park, when the man came up behind her and groped her rear and crotch. The woman pushed him away and drew a knife, and the man eventually retreated. Police say they believe the same suspect is behind both of the incidents.

Victims both described the suspect as a man between 30 and 40 years old, about 5 '7" tall with black hair and a medium build. In both incidents he was with a medium-sized dog, possibly a Border Collie.

Crimestoppers of Tacoma/Pierce County is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspect. Witnesses can anonymously report information to Crimestoppers by callin 1-800-222-TIPS.