A popular Leadville recreation route has turned unsettling after local authorities issued a community safety alert Thursday, warning trail users about multiple reports of a man harassing and, in some cases, assaulting women along the Mineral Belt Trail near town. Officials are asking people to steer clear of the affected stretch when possible, especially if they are alone, while deputies step up patrols. Hikers, runners and dog walkers are being urged to stay sharp and take extra precautions as investigators dig into the reports.
The sheriff's alert describes the suspect as a white male estimated to be 30 to 35 years old who has reportedly been accompanied by two off-leash dogs, including one white dog, during the encounters. The notice instructs anyone who sees someone matching that description to call 911 or county dispatch immediately. The incidents were reported on a section of the trail near the northeast edge of Leadville, prompting the advisory. As reported by the Denver Gazette, deputies are actively monitoring the area.
Where To Be Careful
Reports place the encounters on a stretch of the Mineral Belt Trail near the Leadville/Lake County Animal Shelter on the northeast side of town, a heavily used section frequented by walkers, cyclists, and skiers. The Mineral Belt itself is a roughly 12-mile paved loop that circles Leadville, according to the county parks page, with the animal shelter sitting just off the path at 428 E. 12th Street. Lake County Parks and Recreation and the Leadville/Lake County Animal Shelter offer maps and trail information for people planning their route.
How Officials Are Responding
County officials say they are treating the reports as a serious public safety concern and are encouraging anyone who uses the trail to stay aware of their surroundings. The sheriff's office has urged residents and visitors to sign up for local emergency alerts and to report any suspicious behavior along the Mineral Belt. The county website includes the sheriff's office contact details along with the Everbridge emergency alert sign-up for community notifications. According to the Lake County Sheriff's Office, people should call 911 for emergencies and use county dispatch for non-emergency reports.
Safety Tips For Trail Users
The community alert recommends sticking to pairs or groups when possible, keeping a charged phone within reach, and avoiding more isolated sections of the trail for now. Trail users are asked to remember the suspect description, including the details about the two dogs, and to report any possible sightings immediately rather than trying to confront anyone themselves. As the advisory emphasized, call 911 if you witness behavior that raises concern, according to the Denver Gazette.
Investigators are continuing to follow up on the reports and are asking the public for tips, photos or videos that might help identify the individual involved. All suspects are to be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law as the inquiry continues.
