Boston Police Investigate Sexual Assault in the Area of Unity Street in the North End

At about 1:11am, on Saturday, February 15, 2014, officers from District A-1 (Downtown) responded to a report of a sexual assault in the area of Unity Street in the North End, according to a press release from the Boston Police Department.

Upon arrival, detectives spoke with a female victim in her twenties who reported that while entering her front foyer, a suspect pushed his way in behind her and indecently assaulted the victim. The victim further reported the suspect then took a photo from his cell phone and fled the area towards Tileston Street. EMS treated the victim on scene for non-life threatening injuries.

The suspect is described as a white male in his twenties, medium build, short blond spiked hair, clean shaven with possible freckles on his cheeks, blue eyes, and wearing a dark colored pea coat, dark hat, jeans and Timberland-type boots.

The Boston Police Department is actively investigating facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information is asked to call Sexual Assault Unit detectives at 617-343-4400.

Community members wishing to assist this investigation anonymously can do so by calling CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1(800) 494-TIPS or by texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently guard and protect the identities of those wishing to remain anonymous.

Ensuring Personal Safety:

Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

When parking, walking or returning to your car, travel in well-lit and populated areas.

Wear footwear that allow for added mobility.

Be watchful and aware. Keep your head up. Make quick eye contact with those around you and be observant of passing vehicles. Don’t become distracted by talking on a cell phone or listening to an iPod/similar device.

Avoid walking alone late at night. Walk with friends and people you know.

Keep a whistle within reach. If threatened, use the whistle to signal residents for help. Yelling “Fire!” “Help!” or “Rape!” are ways of drawing attention and alerting people of your situation.

Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.

Carry a cell phone and call ahead to your destination to alert them that you’re on the way. Make sure you’re expected at a certain time, so in the event you fail to show up, those expecting you will know enough to begin looking for you.

Walk with confidence. Don’t let anyone violate your space. Trust your instincts. Anyone at anytime can be a victim of crime so never assume, “IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME.”

If an unarmed attacker confronts you, believe in your ability to defend, distract, or even incapacitate the attacker enough to escape.

If you think that someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk towards an open store, restaurant or residence.