Sheriff's deputies in Poway are searching for a man who allegedly sexually battered an 11-year-old girl near the 13400 block of Midland Road last Saturday, then ran off before they arrived. Investigators say the girl's friend screamed at the man to stop during the incident.
What investigators say
According to Fox5 San Diego, a sheriff’s helicopter, K-9 unit and deputies combed the area after the report came in but were unable to find the suspect.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department describes the suspect as a Hispanic man between 25 and 35 years old, about 5-foot-10 with a medium build and a bald or shaved head. He was last seen wearing black sunglasses, a gray hooded sweatshirt and black shorts.
Investigation under way
Detectives from the sheriff’s Child Abuse Unit have taken over the investigation and conducted a neighborhood canvas, according to the county. The sheriff's office is asking anyone with information to contact its Child Abuse Unit at (858) 285-6222, per the San Diego County Sheriff's Office.
How to report tips
Anonymous tips can also be submitted to San Diego County Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477 or through its online tip form. Crime Stoppers allows callers to remain anonymous and will accept video or surveillance submissions.
Local context
The case comes amid a string of high-profile investigations around Poway and nearby parts of East County; earlier this year, Hoodline reported on a separate Poway spa robbery that included sexual-battery allegations in the sheriff’s account.
Sheriff's investigators say the suspect in Saturday's case remains at large and no arrests were reported after the search. Detectives continue to seek witnesses and any surveillance from the 13400 block of Midland Road around the time of the incident.
