A juvenile has been taken into custody in Ferndale, suspected of a troubling pattern of behavior involving the groping of women on the streets. The incidents, which first surfaced in July, have seen a series of women report unwanted advances from someone on a bicycle.
After releasing photos earlier this week and urging those walking alone to stay vigilant, law enforcement made a breakthrough. "He basically passes the female head on and once he identifies them, he circles back around and then grabs them and then flees the scene," Evan Ahlin of the Ferndale Police said, as per FOX 2 Detroit. The suspect was identified and taken into custody on Friday.
The alarming incidents took place across Ferndale, at various locations including the area of Livernois and Fielding streets, and near the intersection of Farmdale and Troy streets. The latest case came to light when another victim came forward on Thursday, claiming she had been touched inappropriately by the juvenile in July. Cases have occurred through July, August, and as recently as last week.
Ferndale Police Chief Dennis Emmi stressed the gravity of the situation, stating, "We take these incidents very seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety of our community," as reported by CBS News Detroit. He expressed gratitude toward those who reported the misconduct, which has been crucial to the apprehension. Their bravery in coming forward has ignited the process of seeking justice.
