Police: Man wanted in string of sex assaults, rape and robberies in South Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (FOX 29) - Police are searching for a man who they say is responsible for a string of sexual assaults and robberies in South Philadelphia.

The man captured on surveillance footage is wanted in connection with nine attempted sex assaults.

The most recent incident occurred at 5 a.m. Friday on the 1900 block of South Bancroft Street. Investigators say the attacker followed a woman into her workplace and raped her.

"He does appear to be riding bike looking for easy opportunities," said Special Victims Unit Captain Mark Burgmann.

In one instances on 10th and Christian streets, a victim was asleep in her bedroom when a man appeared in the doorway and jumped into bed with her. She was able to get away.

"Somebody has to know who he is. We are hoping someone gives us a call and tell us who he," Burgmann said.

"Women in South Philadelphia should not have to be stressed over their safety when leaving or returning to their homes alone and locking their doors in fear at night because a serial predator has not been caught," Councilman Kenyatta Johnson said of the incidents.

South Philadelphia residents with home security videos are urged to turn footage over to Philadelphia police and register for the department's SafeCam program.

Anyone with information is urged to contact 215-686-TIPS (8477). Tips can also be texted to PPD TIP or 773847.

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If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, Women Organized Against Rape (WOAR), a Philadelphia nonprofit, has free counseling services available, regardless of how much time has passed since the trauma. WOAR's 24/7 Hotline number to help victims is 215-985-3333.

Philadelphia's Sexual Assault Resource Center and Philadelphia Police Department's Special Victims Unit (SVU) also operate 24/7 to help victims. They are located at 300 E. Hunting Park and can be reached at 215-685-3251.