Sexual battery incidents in Moreno Valley prompt search for suspect

MORENO VALLEY, Calif. (KABC) -- Police in Moreno Valley on Tuesday asked for the public's help in identifying a man wanted in connection with multiple incidents of sexual battery that have occurred in recent months.

The assaults targeted women who were either walking or jogging in the area of Gateway Park and Sunnymead Ranch Parkway when they were touched on the buttocks by a man who followed them on foot, according to a statement published on Facebook by the Moreno Valley Police Department.

The agency released two composite sketches of the suspect, as well as surveillance photos of a pickup truck with an extended cab.

The man immediately ran or walked away after the two most recent incidents, which took place in late September, police said.

"Based on the physical description provided by the victims, the manner in which the crimes were carried out, and the location where the incidents occurred, investigators believe one individual may be responsible for committing these assaults," the news release said.

The man being sought is described as Hispanic, 20-30 years old, 5 feet 3 inches to 5 feet 8 inches tall, with a thin-to-medium build, short black hair, brown eyes and a thin mustache. He was variously seen wearing sweatpants or shorts, a dark-colored hat, and a dark-colored jacket.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Investigator Vasquez of the Moreno Valley Police Department oat (951) 486-6700.