December 7, 2009

Some people might jokingly call it "copping a feel," but it's sexual assault and a suspect has been targeting unsuspecting women for at least two years.

"This is happening in the Maryvale area between 43rd avenue and 75th avenue and between Indian School and Thomas road," said Phoenix Police Sergeant Darren Burch."

Basically this suspect will approach women as their alone at bus stops - usually with a child so their attention is somewhat diverted - and engages in some type of small conversation, always talking in Spanish.

"Then out of nowhere he begins fondling their breasts."

The suspect takes off before the woman even has a chance to react.

"It's been going on for so long that we have a variety of descriptions," Burch said. "Basically it's a Hispanic male - he speaks Spanish, never spoke English - he's anywhere from 5'3 to 5'7 and in his 30s."

Burch said there are probably more victims who have not come forward to police.

"Some of the victims have been undocumented citizens, so we're afraid that there may be some out there that are afraid to come forward," he said.

Burch said nobody should be afraid to report a crime.

If you have information regarding this crime, please contact (480) WITNESS.