Man sought on suspicion of assaulting teen girls near Savanna High School in Anaheim

ANAHEIM, Calif. (KABC) -- Authorities are searching for a man suspected of sexually assaulting underage girls walking to high school in Anaheim.

Anaheim detectives said on several occasions a man in his 20s or 30s will walk up behind the girls and grab them then flee the scene. Every incident has happened near Savanna High School, located at 301 N. Gilbert St.

Police said they've had at least three reports since last week. The latest incident happened Monday morning in the 2800 block of West Lincoln Avenue. The juvenile female was walking to school when she was accosted by the suspect.

He is described as standing between 5 feet 3 inches tall and 5 feet 6 inches tall, unshaven, with a thin build and short hair.

Residents said the area where the attacks have happened is always busy with students walking to school and other pedestrians. Many were surprised to hear about the brazen attacks.

"I hope the cops catch him very quickly because girls don't need to be walking in fear, boys either. Any kid shouldn't be walking in fear," said Anaheim resident Kenneth Hernandez.

The Anaheim Union High School District sent parents a letter making them aware of the crimes. Anaheim police said they've stepped up patrols in the area and until the man is caught, remind students to take steps to protect themselves.

"Just the more parents can encourage their kids to be aware of their surroundings as they're walking and perhaps walk with other friends," said Anaheim PD Sgt. Jeff Mundy.

Police are working with the Anaheim Union School District to ensure the safety and well-being of students.

Anyone with more information is urged to call the Anaheim Police Department at (714) 765-1900 or Crime Stoppers at (855) TIP-OCCS.