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Teen sexually assaulted in Leander park
Police are looking for a man who sexually assaulted a teen at Benbrook Ranch Park in Leander.
LEANDER, Texas - Leander police are searching for a man who sexually assaulted a teenager on Tuesday, May 7.
According to LPD, a teenage girl was riding her bike along a wooded trail behind Benbrook Ranch Park at 1100 Halsey Drive in Leander when a man grabbed her and sexually assaulted her.
The suspect is described as:
- A white man
- Approximately 5'11" tall
- 180 lbs
- Brown buzzed or close-cut hair
- Stubble beard
- Wearing a blue hoodie with blue jeans and gray shoes
Leander police and K-9 conducted an extensive search of the area but were unable to locate the suspect.
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LPD says this is an active investigation. Police have increased patrols in the area and are working closely with Leander Parks and Recreation Department to increase staff visibility and ensure all suspicious activity is reported.
Police are asking Leander park visitors to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Report suspicious activity to the police immediately and stay within sight of friends and family.
"We are encouraging people that if they happened to be at the park, they were taking video with a cell phone, there are some baseball fields that are adjacent to this park. If they happen to be out there filming their kid swinging the bat, please review that footage and see if you captured someone that matches the description of the suspect, as well as any homeowners in the area that have surveillance videos. Check the video from that time of day. If they see anyone walking by, and if so please contact us," Lt. Mike Mohler with Leander police said.
Police say cases like this are not common in Leander.
"This is a one-off like this, especially an assault like this in a park during that time of day," Mohler said.
However, it's still important to be vigilant.
"We recommend people stay aware when they're going through parks, especially at nighttime, don't be laser focused on their cell phone, be aware of their surroundings. If it is during the dark or dimly lit times, try to travel, walk with a group of people," Mohler said. "If you see something, say something. If you see something suspicious, please let us know. Call the police department. Always trust your instincts. If it doesn't look right, let us know."
Anyone with information relating to this case is asked to contact Sgt. George at 512-528-3839 or email ageorge@leandertx.gov.