Police: Woman Attacked In University City
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia Police say a suspect is facing charges after a woman was attacked in University City Thursday night.
Police say it happened around 6:30 p.m. Thursday at 41st and Pine Streets.
"It's terrifying. It's not a great feeling knowing you cannot be safe in your own neighborhood," said a student.
"It's definitely scary. I would advise caution," said another student.
There have been several attacks in the area just in the past week.
Thursday evening, police say a woman walking alone along Pine Street was hit from behind with a bicycle lock.
"Strikes her in the back of the head with a bicycle lock and demands her purse. There were non-uniform officers in the area because of a recent rash of robberies that have been occurring. They see the offender dragging the victim about 50 yards. They immediately jump out of their car and they are able to rescue her," Philadelphia Police Lt. John Walker said.
Philadelphia Police, University of Pennsylvania and Drexel Police have saturated the area, stepping up patrols in light of the recent assaults.
Police believe the 55-year-old suspect now in police custody may also be linked to three other attacks over the past several days.
Police also using DNA evidence to see if he may be linked to a sexual assault and robbery at 47th and Chestnut.
'He was charged overnight with one of the robberies which was the job last night where he was observed by the police officers striking this female," Philadelphia Police Lt. John Walker said Friday night.
Police say he was arraigned and received $150,000 bail. He has been charged with robbery, simple assault and aggravated assault in the case on Thursday night.
Police have not released the name of the suspect.
Stay with CBSPhilly.com for the latest on this developing story.
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