No Arrests In Bethesda Hugger Case

Police are looking for a man they believe may be

Three incidents have occurred since June, and Montgomery County police believe the same man may be responsible. In all three cases, a man approached the women from behind at night and wrapped his arms around them, police said. The man didn’t speak or attempt to rob the victims, but during the most recent incident on Aug. 8, police say the man inappropriately touched a woman after hugging her.

In two of the cases, the victims were wearing headphones and didn’t hear the suspect approach.

Police have urged anyone who has experienced a similar incident to contact them. They’ve publicized the case through their website and the local media has extensively reported the story. So far, however, police have received no tips, according to police spokeswoman Officer Janelle Smith.

Police are describing the suspect as a white or Asian male, between 18 and 22, between 5-feet-6 and 5-feet-10, with a thin build and dark hair. Two of the victims told police he was wearing a T-shirt and athletic shorts.

Police are asking anyone with information to call the Second District Investigative Section at 301-657-0112. 

To submit an anonymous tip, call Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477) or 240-773-TIPS (8477), submit a tip online, or text “MCPD” along with the tip to 274637 (CRIMES).  Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest in this case.