Detroit police are searching for a man accused of sexually assaulting a 40-year-old woman in an alley in the 20500 block of James Couzens around 7 a.m. on Sunday. Investigators say the woman was approached from behind in the alley and then physically and sexually assaulted.
Police describe the suspect as about 6 feet 3 inches tall, weighing between 180 and 200 pounds, with a black mustache and goatee. He was last seen wearing a skull cap, a white hooded sweatshirt under a black thigh-length coat, dark pants, and black-and-white shoes.
According to ClickOnDetroit, Detroit Police have circulated an image of the suspect, and the department’s Special Victims Unit is leading the investigation. Anyone who recognizes the man or his clothing is urged to contact law enforcement.
How to report tips
Tips can be sent through the city’s online tip portal or through Crime Stoppers. Tipsters can also call the Special Victims Unit directly at 313-596-1950.
The city site notes that rewards may be available for information that leads to an arrest and asks anyone reaching out to include any case details they have, such as what they saw, when they saw it, or any video that might help.
Why the Special Victims Unit matters
The Special Victims Unit handles sensitive sexual assault cases and works closely with prosecutors to review forensic evidence and potential charges, according to the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office. That partnership can be key when detectives are relying on neighborhood sightings and camera footage to lock in a suspect’s identity.
Investigators are asking anyone who has dash-cam or surveillance footage from the area around 7 a.m. on Sunday to save those recordings and contact the Special Victims Unit or Crime Stoppers. In an emergency, or to report a crime in progress, call 911.
