4 separate sexual assaults in Coquitlam park have now been linked: police

Four separate sexual assaults in and around Coquitlam’s Glen Park have now been linked, police confirmed on Monday.

And in a release, Coquitlam RCMP said they’re making this information public so everyone “can protect themselves, and help police identify a suspect.

Police said the incidents happened on December 16, 2019, and December 19, 2019. Two more incidents occurred on January 22, 2020, and January 25, 2020

The incidents “happened so quickly that no one has yet seen the suspect’s face,” said Cpl.  Michael McLaughlin with Coquitlam RCMP. “If you are a woman walking alone near the 1100 block of Westwood Street, please be extra-aware. Consider walking with a friend or partner. No matter who you are, call 911 immediately if you see anything suspicious at or near Glen Park.”

And while the no one has seen the suspect’s face, some “consistent” suspect descriptions have emerged, police said.

In all cases, the suspect has been described as a man with a “slight” build, who is “short or below-average height,” wearing dark clothing and a black jacket.

In all circumstances, “the suspect targeted an adult female by touching or slapping her and quickly running away,” police said. The alleged attacks all happened in the early evening between 5 pm and 7 pm.

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“It’s important that women feel safe in our parks, and we need everyone’s help to make that reality,” said McLaughlin. “Our sex-crimes unit is investigating and these incidents are being treated as high-priority. Our frontline officers will respond quickly when you call 911.”

Anyone who may have information that could assist with the ongoing investigation is asked to call the Coquitlam RCMP’s non-emergency number at 604-945-1550.