Update on Sexual Assault Investigation

Published: 03/29/2019

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

March 29, 2019

 

CONTACT:

Officer Ryan J. Railsback

Public Information Officer  

Community Services Bureau

[email protected]

(951) 373-6032 (Media Contact)

 

UPDATE ON SEXUAL ASSAULT INVESTIGATION

 

RIVERSIDE, CA – On the morning of February 14, 2019, the City of Riverside’s Public Safety Communications Center received of a call of a sexual assault alleged to have occurred near the dead end of the 5000 block of Tequesquite Avenue in Riverside. Officers quickly responded and contacted an adult female victim who reported she was sitting in her vehicle when the suspect approached and committed the sexual assault, then fled on foot toward the Santa Ana River bottom area.

 

Officers conducted an extensive search for the suspect with the assistance from a Riverside County Sheriff’s Department K-9 bloodhound and handler, but no suspect was located.  Detectives from the Sexual Assault – Child Abuse Unit (SACA) responded to assume the investigation, and a sketch artist was later called in to help create a suspect rendering.  That composite sketch was distributed in a bulletin to the community.

 

This investigation generated a considerable amount of interest from the community. Many of our residents were understandably concerned and fearful.  Those who live near or enjoy visiting Bonaminio Park and the Mt. Rubidoux trails were especially fearful in the wake of this alleged attack.

 

After an extensive investigation and additional interviews with the woman who originally reported this crime, Detectives have been able to conclusively determine that, in fact, this incident did not occur.

 

“While this is a sensitive matter and being handled appropriately, it is important to assure the community that the Riverside Police Department takes all such allegations seriously and dedicates all available resources to solving the crime and protecting the community” stated Chief Sergio Diaz.  “It is also important, in this instance, to assure the community they have nothing to fear as it relates to this alleged crime or the alleged perpetrator.”

 

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