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Police Release Video Of Suspect Wanted In 'Sexual Assault Pattern' In West Philly

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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Police have released a video of the man suspected of being involved in a sexual assault pattern in the West Philadelphia section of the city.

"This person is not operating with any timidity, he's very bold," said Philadelphia Police Captain Sekou Kinebrew.

Police say the first woman was attacked on Concourse Drive in West Philadelphia as she got off a bus. It was July 17 at 5:45 a.m.

"The sun would've absolutely been up at 5:45, right at the start of rush hour," said Captain Kinebrew. "She is getting off the bus and walking, I guess to her direction of work or school I'm not entirely sure. But she is part of the morning rush."

According to police, the second assault was even more bold and brazen. Part of it was captured on surveillance video from a gas station on West Girard Avenue.

The video shows a man dressed in dark pants, a dark hoodie, and a black hat approaching a woman at a gas station.

Philly Police Investigating 'Sexual Assault Pattern' In West Philly

West Philly Sex Assault Pattern Suspect
Credit: CBS3.

The suspected rapist is seen with a gun in his left hand, at four in the morning. He walks up to a woman pumping gas, forces her in the car, where there is another woman.

He takes them to Fairmount Park and assaults both women there.

"We always say walk in pairs or go in pairs when it's dark, they did that and it still happened," said Captain Kinebrew. "That again lends itself to why we find this to be such an urgent set of circumstances."

Police are hoping that someone recognizes the suspected rapist and comes forward, but in the meantime want women in the area to stay on high alert.

Many women are doing just that.

"Everybody be careful, take care. Don't let your daughter go alone," said Maria Carrasquillo of West Philadelphia. "If you have a really good pet, take your pet with you."

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This suspect is described as a black male in his 40s to 50s with a thin build and clean shaven. He was last seen wearing a brown hoodie, tan pants and a brown hat.

Anyone with any information regarding these incidents is asked to call police at 215-685-3251.

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