Sketch of trail assault suspect released

VERNON, Conn. (WTNH) -- Vernon police have released a sketch of the suspect who tried to sexually assault a woman while she was walking Wednesday night along a trail.

The woman was walking her dogs along Rails-To-Trails between Route 30 and Center Road when the man attacked her around 7 p.m.

Residents are stunned that a 30-year-old woman was attacked on the popular walking trail.

"But this is really scary, this is very scary," Jodi Hoover said.

The suspect was not put off by the animals, which was upsetting to the women who think of their dogs as extra protection.

"He was still brazen enough to do it," Donna said. "That is very brazen."

The victim told detectives she was walking her dogs when the suspect jogged past her, then turned around, jumped her from behind and threw her to the ground. When she began to yell for help the suspect tried to cover her mouth to stop her from screaming, but then he suddenly ran off. He was last seen running towards Route 30.

The suspect is a white male between 5'9-6'0" tall with thin build, short gray hair and light colored eyes. The woman told police he was wearing a white t-shirt and dark colored mesh athletic shorts.

He said something before attacking the woman and police warn he may regularly jog on the trail between 5-7 p.m.
    
"We always see the same people, like when we run, we always see the same people everyday," Hoover said. "So that is very alarming."

The trail runs through many Vernon neighborhoods, and along backyards in some parts. Stretches of the path are woodsy and shaded.

"I hope they catch him quickly because I'm telling you, we are all out here all the time," Hoover said.

The sketch may bring tips so the trail to find the suspect doesn't go cold. Anyone with information is asked to call Vernon Police's Detective Division at (860) 872-9126.