Sex Assault Increases Police Presence as Hunt for Attacker Continues

Hoboken Police have increased their presence in the area of Monroe and 1st streets where a woman was sexually assaulted last weekend while the search for her attacker continues.

The man sexually assaulted the woman in the hallway of an apartment building at about 1:15 a.m. last Saturday, police said. The attacker fled in an unknown direction and was last seen wearing a dark-colored hooded sweatshirt, dark jeans and a backwards fitted hat under the hood, according to police.

The man is described as white or Hispanic in his late 30s to early 40s with blond hair, blue eyes and a blonde goatee and scruffy beard, according to police. The man is about 5-foot-9 with a husky build, weighing between 180 and 200 pounds, police said.

Anyone with information can contact the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victim’s Unit at 201-915-1234.

"The Hoboken Police Department has increased presence in the area of the incident and are taking proactive steps in response," according to a city Nixle alert released Thursday.

The Nixle alert also outlined the following safety reminders:

Safety tips while at home
• Look before opening your door to anyone.
• Keep doors locked at all times and instruct children never open your door to anyone.
• Require all strangers that come to your door to show identification. If you haven't called for a repairman, don't let one inside. Leave him waiting outside and call his place of business to verify his reason for being in your area.
• Don't let a stranger inside your home to use the phone; make the call for him.
• Never admit that you or a neighbor is home alone.
• Women living alone should use only initials on mailboxes and in telephone listings.
• Leave outside lights on at night, and keep lights on in more than one room.
• If you receive an obscene phone call-hang up-don't react.

Safety tips while walking
• Avoid unsafe situations and strangers. If you are being followed, go to the nearest police or fire department, or any place where several people will be (convenience stores, gas station, etc.) Walk in groups at night.
• Flee if you are in a potentially dangerous situation. Yell or scream to attract attention. Carry a whistle that will make a loud noise.
• When possible, avoid walking alone. Walk with someone or walk in areas where other people are near
• Stay in well-lighted areas, away from alleys, bushes and entry ways.
• Avoid shortcuts through parks, vacant lots and other deserted places.
• Don't hitchhike or accept rides from strangers.
• If a driver stops to ask you directions, avoid getting near the car.
• If you are being followed, go to the nearest business or residence for help.
• If you are harassed by the occupants of a car, simply turn and walk in the other direction. The driver will have to turn around to follow you.
• Hold your purse close, not dangling, and avoid carrying extra money or valuables on your person.
• When you return home, have your door key ready so that you can enter without delay.
• Be aware of any persons nearby when you enter your building. Never let anyone you don’t know follow you inside.
• Avoid stairways in garages and buildings if possible.
• Don't walk or jog at night wearing headphones. You need to be able to hear someone driving up or walking up behind you.