Community Safety Alerts
Police Investigating Attack in West End
The Portland Police Department is investigating an attack that happened on the night of Wednesday, May 5th around 9:40 p.m. on Gray Street. A female victim reported being punched several times in the face and head. The victim told officers that she was out walking and talking on her phone at the time when she felt someone tap her on the shoulder. When she turned around, a male suspect punched her in the face, and she fell to the ground. The suspect continued punching her before leaving the scene in an unknown direction.
The suspect was described as a white man with a slim build, standing between 5’5”- 6’ tall and was wearing dark clothing and possibly a ski mask and hood.
Due to the nature of the attack, police are advising anyone who may be walking alone to take extra care to protect themself. This includes being alert and monitoring your surroundings and staying in well-lit areas.
If anyone has information that could help solve this crime, please contact Portland Police. Anonymous phone tips can be left on the Portland Police Department’s Crime Tip line: 207-874-8584. Mobile phone users can text the keyword “PPDME” plus their message to 847411 (TIP411).
Portland Police Report High Rate of Bike Thefts
A concerning trend of bicycle thefts has been observed by Portland Police officers since the start of 2021. From January 1st through May 16th, there have been 61 reported thefts of bicycles in the city.
Portland Police detectives are advising that residents do not leave bikes outside even if secured by a lock. It’s also recommended to take a picture of the bicycle and to record the serial number so that it can be returned to the owner if found. Often bikes cannot be traced back to anyone without further identifying markings, receipts, or proof of purchase or ownership.
Investigators have found that thieves will drive throughout the city to find bikes to sell on Craigslist and other for-sale-by-owner websites.
If anyone witnessed these bike thefts or has any information that could help police solve these crimes, please call (207) 874-8575.
