Attempted Sexual Assault Near Porter Square

Update, Wed., 9:20 a.m.: The Somerville Police Department is asking anyone with information about the attempted sexual assault to contact the department.

According to an email from police, when the suspect attempted to assault the victim, the victim screamed, and the suspect fled north on Porter Street toward Summer Street. The victim was not hurt, police said.

If anyone saw or heard something suspicious or has any information, contact Somerville detectives at (617) 625-1600, extension 7224.

ORIGINAL POST:

The city of Somerville Tuesday evening sent out a constituent services email and robocall to alert residents about an attempted sexual assault that took place Monday night near Porter Square.

Here's the text of the phone call and email alert, which was issued at about 6:30 p.m.:

This is Jackie Rossetti from the City of Somerville with an important message on behalf of the Somerville Police Department: 

On Monday, November 18th, at approximately 11:35 p.m., a female victim reported that while walking home alone in the Porter Square area, she was grabbed from behind by an unknown male who attempted to indecently assault her. The male suspect was described as being 5’9" tall with short straight hair. He was reportedly wearing a black jacket with a collar, baggy pants and nice shoes. 

Anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious, or anyone who has information about this incident should contact Somerville Police Detectives at 617 625-1600, extension 7224. If you see a crime in progress, or see anything or anyone acting suspicious, please call 911 immediately. 

We all need to remain vigilant and take personal safety measures, especially when walking alone. As a reminder: 

• If possible, never walk alone, particularly after dark.
• Avoid distractions like air buds or headphones.
• Walk in well-lit areas.
• Avoid short cuts that take you into dark areas.
• Keep your cell phone handy at all times.

Thank you.

If you want to sign up for city of Somerville constituent services calls, you can do so here.