Hillsborough County sheriff’s deputies are on the hunt for a man who is on the hunt for homeless women.
According to the sheriff’s office, the man tried attacking a woman on Aug. 5 around 10:20 p.m. at 1402 Bearrs Avenue.
The woman told investigators she was approached by the man, who asked her to perform a sexual act.
When she refused, he grabbed the victim. She was able to break free and run away.
A man fitting the same description is accused of attacking another homeless woman in April.
That victim told detectives she was walking along the CSX railroad tracks when the man approached her and sexually battered her.
Brandy Nugent is homeless and stays in the area of the attack and the attempt. She believes homeless women are preyed upon because they are viewed as weak. “You’re out here, you’re weak. I mean you can go three or four days without nutrition. You know what I mean? Something to help you get by,” said Nugent. “And they know that too. ”
The man was last seen wearing a polo shirt, white shorts and white Nike tennis shoes.
He was riding a white bicycle with thin tires and a flashing red light on the back. He is not believed to be homeless.
A sheriff’s office release describes the man as a black male, clean cut and muscular, 35-40 years old and approximately 225-250 pounds with a bumpy scar underneath his left eye.
Anyone who recognizes the suspect is asked to call the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at 813-247-8200.
To be eligible for a cash reward, send tips to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS (8477). Tips can be reported anonymously online or by using our P3 Tips mobile application. You must call Crime Stoppers first to be eligible for a reward.
