Ocean Crest Suspect
An artist’s rendering of the suspect who grabbed women in an Ocean Crest-area neighborhood apparently in failed attempts to sexually assault them. Photo courtesy of SDPD

Authorities asked the public Tuesday to be on the lookout for a man who has attacked and tried to sexually assault women on four occasions in Ocean Crest-area neighborhoods.

In each of the cases, the unidentified assailant jumped the victim from behind after she arrived home late at night, then fled when she fought back or screamed, according to San Diego police. One of the women used self-defense pepper spray she was carrying, SDPD Lt. Sandra Rapalee-Albrektse said.

The crimes occurred in the 1200 block of Dennery Road on April 14 and May 13; in the 4500 block of Riviera Shores Street on July 25; and in the 4500 block of Northern Moon Way on Sept. 10.

The perpetrator was described as a thin but athletic-looking, roughly 5-foot-9-inch Latino in his mid-20s to early 30s. Police have released an artist’s rendering of him in hopes of generating a tip that leads to his identification and arrest.

Officials asked anyone with information about the assaults to call San Diego County Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477. Tipsters may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

— City News Service