Women urged to walk in pairs after string of sex assaults
York Regional Police are urging women to walk in pairs as they search for a man they're calling a sexual predator wanted in connection with a string of sexual assaults.
Police said the latest attack took place around 11 a.m. on Tuesday near the Upper Canada Mall in Newmarket, even though patrols have been increased in the area.
Since August, police believe the same male suspect has attacked five young women. In each case, the victims are targeted and groped, including one attack that took place in the mall's busy parking lot.
"One happened right here, my boss called it in," said Ashley Mindle-Maillet, who works in the area.
"A girl was walking with her baby and a guy came up and attacked her."
Another attack, on a street just north of the mall, turned violent. An 18-year-old woman was walking in the area when she was thrown to the ground. Police said the suspect only stopped his attack when a passerby intervened.
York Regional Police said in all of the attacks the victims were looking down at their smartphones and in some cases had headphones on to listen to music.
"The suspect we do believe is seeking people matching the description of a slighter build than he is, distracted, then attacking," said Const. Andy Pattenden.
"Perhaps the suspect believes he can overpower them."
Police have published a list of safety tips on their website.
Women who live and work in the area have been on edge as the attacks continue.
"No one should have to worry about coming to the mall and getting," said Lauren Wagner.
"I just moved here a year ago … it's super creepy," said Chelsey Dawson.
Both women said they're hoping the suspect is apprehended soon. York Regional Police have also notified schools in the area about the threat and have been looking for surveillance video of the man.
Police describe him as white, aged 20-25-years-old, standing approximately 5'5 with a slight build. Police say during the attacks he wears a hoodie with his hood up.
Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to contact police directly or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
