Police sought public help Thursday to find a man suspected of sexual assaulting a 12-year-old near a Long Beach middle school.
Officers responded around 8:30 a.m. Thursday to a location near Washington Middle School regarding a man suspected of wrapping his arms around a 12-year-old girl and attempting to move her, according to the Long Beach Police Department. The girl managed to escape uninjured and reported the crime to authorities. An investigation remains ongoing.
The department has advised the public to follow several steps to ensure safety, including walking in pairs or groups when possible, looking after one another and walking in high-trafficked areas.
Patrol Neighborhood Safety Bike Team officers are assisting with conducting additional patrols and safe passage, police said.
Anyone with information regarding the alleged assault was urged to contact 562-435-6711.