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Decatur Police urgently seek community's help in search for burglary, assault suspect

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Decatur Police say three incidents happened in a five mile radius.

Decatur Police say the first incident was reported in April.

Decatur Police are urgently looking for a man they say is breaking into houses and sexually assaulting people inside.

Police say that it has happened three times within about a five-mile radius, and they believe the same man is responsible based on the victims' statements.

The first incident occurred back in April on Ferry Street. The other two happened in December: once on Dec. 7 on Hay Drive and just a few days ago on Dec. 14 on 2nd Avenue.

Chief Todd Pinion says there is currently no physical evidence or DNA linking the three crime scenes together. However, based on each victim's description, police say they have reason to believe the incidents are connected.

“We’re working together to get more evidence to put out a better description in the future, but this is what we have been given at this time, and we're working with and trying to narrow down," said Pinion. "That is why we are asking for the community's help and support in this. Really just to remain vigilant, and if you see something that's out of the ordinary, report it to us; let us know, especially in those late-night hours."

Pinion said the suspect is entering homes through unlocked windows. 

With that said, police are pleading with the community to be extra alert. They stress that if you see something, say something, especially during the late-night to early-morning hours.

If you have outdoor cameras, police urge you to ensure they are turned on and functioning properly.

"If you have surveillance cameras and different things in the area, please make sure that those are turned on and you're able to access those, and not just that live only. I know some people do that, but really it's a good time to check and make sure everything is working properly,†said Pinion.

If you have any information that could help, call Decatur Police. The phone number for the Decatur Police Department is 256-341-4660.

Pinion added, "This should be a happy, festive time, but you know you need to be aware."

Decatur Police

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