Suspect wanted for assaulting mom, child at park | Crime

MODESTO, CA - Police search for a suspect who assaulted a woman and her infant while at a park on Thursday afternoon. 

According to Modesto police Ofc. Scott Nelson, the victim, her 1-year-old and 8-year-old were at the 1204 River Road park in south Modesto when the suspect approached them, punched the woman the face and knocked her to the ground with her 1-year-old still in her arms.

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While on the ground, the suspect sexually assaulted the woman.

An elderly woman walking by noticed the assault, took the kids away from the scene and searched for help. According to Nelson, the suspect saw the witness and took off on foot towards an adjacent neighborhood, west of the park. 

"The suspect punched her several times and pulled her to the ground while her children were in the immediate area and the suspect did sexually assault her," Nelson said.

When police arrived at the scene, they searched for the suspect with help from K9 units. However, due to the delay between the assault and police arriving at the scene, the suspect was able to make an escape, Nelson said.

The woman was transported to a local hospital for treatment for her injuries. The 1-year-old suffered minor injuries from the assault as well, but is safe with immediate family.

Modesto police continue to search for the suspect. He is described as a black man in his 30s, last seen wearing a black tank top and shorts.

CrimeStoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the suspect. Police urge those who believe they have information to call (209) 521- 4636.