Oceanside RCMP are searching for a man believed to be involved in two incidents of exhibitionism and sexual assault. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

pervert wanted

Oceanside RCMP hunting for exhibitionist pervert in two separate incidents

Aug 20, 2019 | 8:26 AM

PARKSVILLE — Two women are traumatized after separate but possibly linked incidents of a man masturbating in the woods.

Oceanside RCMP Cpl. Jesse Foreman told NanaimoNewsNOW the first incident occurred on Monday, Aug. 19 at 8:15 a.m. along the wooded trails near the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre.

An 81-year-old woman was confronted by a man while walking her dog. He was masturbating and called out to her.

When she tried to ignore the man, he sexually assaulted her by grabbing her breasts from behind before running away.

“It scared her quite a bit, as it should,” Foreman said. “We’ve spent the whole day working on this investigation.”

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Less than an hour later at 9 a.m., a man with a similar description was seen also masturbating in the woods near the Springwood Park water tower in Parksville.

He was spotted by an older woman walking along the trails. She yelled at the suspect and caused him to run through the woods.

Foreman said items were recovered from the woods but it’s unclear if it will result in forensic evidence.

“We’ve got some irons in the fire and we’re definitely trying to persue it.”

Foreman said the same suspect is believed to be behind both incidents.

He’s described as between 30 and 40-years-old with a dark or olive skin complexion, stocky build and medium height.

If anyone has any information about the heinous crime they are urged to call Oceanside RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

Foreman encouraged everyone walking Oceanside area trails to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings.

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