Community Alert Regarding Attempted Sexual Assault

MEDIA RELEASE 

The Lamar Police Department would like to issue a community alert after an attempted sexual assault in Willow Creek Park during the late evening hours of Tuesday, June 25^th. The reported incident occurred in Willow Creek Park after the victim had completed a walk, in and around the park.  The victim physically resisted the attacker  and her calls for help attracted other park goers which helped in the deterring the attacker.

No suspect description is available at this time. The matter remains under investigation.

The Lamar Police Department would like to remind everyone of the following summer safety tips:

• Be alert! Walk with confidence and purpose.
• Carry your cell phone with you.
• Be aware of your surroundings.   Know who’s out there and what’s going on around you.
• Don’t let alcohol or drugs cloud your judgment.
• Make sure all doors (don’t forget sliding glass doors) and windows in your home have dead bolt locks, and use them!  Install a peephole in the door.  Keep entrances well-lit.
• Never open your door to strangers. If approached by someone asking for assistance, offer to make an emergency call while they wait outside.  Check the identification of any sales or service people before letting them inside your home.  Don’t be embarrassed to phone for verification.
• Be wary of isolated spots such as apartment laundry rooms, underground garages, parking lots, offices after business hours.
• Know your neighbors so you have someone to call or somewhere to go for safety if the need arises.
• If you come home and see a door or window open, or broken, don’t go in.  Call the police from your cell, a public phone, or neighbors home.
• Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night.  Stay in well-traveled and well lit areas.
• Have your key ready before you reach the door of your home, car, or office.
• If you think you are being followed, change directions and head for open stores, restaurants, theaters, or a lighted house.
• Always lock your car both when you get in and when you get out of it.
• Look around your car and in the back seat before you get in.
• If your car breaks down, lift the hood, lock the doors, and turn on flashers.
• Don’t hitchhike, ever.  And don’t pick up a hitchhiker.