Police Search For Bethesda Serial Hugger

Three women in the Bethesda area have been hugged inappropriately in recent months by what police believe may be the same man.

In all three cases, a man approached the women from behind at night and wrapped his arms around them, according to Montgomery County Police. 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.

The incidents occurred:

• Around 10:20 p.m. June 5, when a 47-year-old woman wearing headphones and walking near Landon Lane and Geranium Street in Bethesda was approached and hugged. The victim screamed and the man ran down the street.
• Around 11 p.m. July 10, when a 27-year-old woman walking from the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro near Tuckerman Lane and Grosvenor Place in North Bethesda was approached and hugged. The woman, also wearing headphones, screamed and ran away from the suspect.
• Around 11:25 p.m. Aug. 8, when a 46-year-old woman walking near Tuckerman Lane and Grosvenor Place in North Bethesda was approached and inappropriately hugged and touched. The suspect ran away when the victim screamed.

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

Police are urging anyone with information about the crimes or anyone who has experienced a similar incident 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.