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Police Release Sketch Of Suspect Who Attempted Assault Of Woman In College Restroom

LONG BEACH (CBS) — Police in Long Beach Friday released a sketch of the suspect they say tried to sexually assault an 18-year-old woman in a restroom at Long Beach City College.

The attempted assault occurred about 9 p.m. Thursday, Long Beach police Sgt. Rico Fernandez said.

Officials say the woman was in a bathroom stall in the Liberal Arts Campus at Carson Street and Clark Avenue when the suspect forced his way into the stall and attempted an assault.

Fernandez said the woman was able to fight her attacker off  "and she is being treated at a hospital for injuries sustained during the assault." He added that her injuries are not severe.

The suspect was described as black, 18-25 years of age, about 5 feet 9 inches tall. The victim also said he was wearing dark clothing and that he had a thin build.

Police believe the attack was an isolated incident but said they have stepped up patrols on and around the campus. They are urging students on campus to use the buddy system, walking with several people and staying in well-lit areas.

On Friday, students like Krystel Medeiros were taking heed of the warnings placed on doorways and classrooms all around the college.

"It's pretty scary to know that when I do come here for school, this is my only day here, that something like that can happen to an individual classmate of ours," Medeiros told CBS2.

(©2011 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)


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