'Man put a towel over her head from behind': Sarasota Police investigating attempted kidnapping at local beach

Cover photo for illustrative purposes only.

An attempted kidnapping of a 51-year-old woman reported on April 2, 2023, has prompted a further investigation from the Sarasota Police Department. A post made about 4 hours ago to The Department's Official Instagram page reveals more about the crime and suspect.

The attempted kidnapping was reported west of North Lido Beach Park at 159 Emerson Drive in Sarasota around approximately 9:30 pm yesterday. The 51-year-old victim told officers that she parked a rental car in the parking lot of Lido Beach at 400 Ben Franklin Drive when she began walking northward on the beach while talking to a friend on her phone.

"When she turned around to head south, she saw a man approach her," the Instagram announcement reads, in part. "She said the man put a towel over her head from behind. The victim was able to escape with minor injuries." The suspect is described as a dark-skinned man, around 6 feet tall, athletic build, tight curly hair, last seen wearing all-black clothing, and had an accent.

The post continues to let residents know that an increase in police officers patrolling the area will be in effect, while also offering tips to anyone who will be alone in an unfamiliar area, especially after dark.

Their tips are as follows:
• Let someone know where you’re traveling or working out
• Take your cell phone
• Avoid using noise-canceling headphones / listening to loud music
• Travel with a friend or a dog, if possible
• Change your routes and times you travel to a location
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Anyone with information on this case is asked to call Detective Steven Fergus at 941-263-6059 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.
Article by Rachael Volpe