Rape near Highway 55 and I94

A crime alert has gone out by the MPD with crime prevention info.
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On Thursday, May 21, at approximately 9:30 PM a woman was reportedly abducted and raped in the area of Olson Memorial Highway just west of I 94. This appears to be an isolated incident and is not part of a larger pattern. Public information is limited due to the fact that this is an active police investigation.



Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Sgt. David Mattson in the Minneapolis Police Department’s Sex Crimes Unit at (612) 673-2358. Callers can remain anonymous.



What you can do:



· Stay alert to your surroundings. Be aware of who is ahead of you and who is behind you. If you use an iPod or other earphones, keep the sound to a minimum to help you hear people approaching.

· Trust your feelings and act on them. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or a situation, leave.

· .Be aware of vehicles idling nearby or strangers sitting in vehicles or loitering. When approaching your car or house have your car or house key in your hand.

· If you are out at night:

1. use the buddy system

2. travel in well-used areas

3. walk and jog in well-lit areas

· Use strong body language by walking with confidence and purpose, head up.

· If you think someone is following you, switch directions and walk to a lighted home or where there are other people.

· Keep distance between yourself and a potential attacker by walking or running away and/or placing obstacles between you (car, bus shelter, etc.).

· Draw attention to yourself or a potential attacker by using loud verbal commands, a screech alarm, or both.

· Call 911 immediately to report any cries for help.

· Report any incidents of criminal sexual conduct.





Please call Sgt. David Mattson at (612) 673-2358 if you have any information about this crime. You can remain anonymous. For additional information on Personal Safety, please call your sector Crime Prevention Specialist.