6-3-18 CPD & RPD Warn Jogging/Running Community of Suspicious Activity

In the past two weeks, it’s been brought to the attention of both departments that a suspicious man is approaching and attempting to engage with female joggers towards the end of their run. Based on the information both departments received, the suspect appears to be a black male who's targeting females jogging in the Red Bank/Hixson area during the early morning hours. In one incident, the suspicious man was traveling on foot, in the other incident the man was driving a white van. Officers do not have a more detailed description of the suspect because he surprises the victims and quickly takes off.

CPD & RPD remind joggers being aware of your surroundings is the best way to protect yourself. Other safety reminders:

• Jog in pairs or in a group
• Do not jog or run in a heavily wooded, poorly lighted or secluded area
• Do not wear earbuds
• Do not run after dark
• Do not jog or run near bushes which can provide concealment
• Vary your route
• Carry a cell phone
• Be mindful of people passing you

Both agencies are warning the jogging community to be vigilant even though a crime was not committed in either of these incidents. CPD and RPD encourage anyone to report suspicious or possibly threatening situations by calling 423-698-2525 or 911.

###