SPRING HILL, Fla. — Hernando County deputies are looking for a man who robbed and attempted to sexually assault a woman outside of a Spring Hill apartment complex.
Officials say the woman was walking back to her home when the suspect knocked her down and attempted to sexually batter her. The man ran off with the victims cellphone when she started to scream for help.
The crime occurred around 2:00 a.m. on June 2 at the Bridgewater Club Apartment complex.
"This is a horror, it really is," said resident Domenic Nuccio.
The victim said the man approached her before the attack and attempted to make small talk. She spoke with him briefly before continuing on her way — that's when officials say he ran up behind her.
Mackenzie Lockamy says she grew up living in the apartments and always knew not to walk in the area late at night.
"I feel so bad for the woman it happened to because no woman or anyone should have to go through that, this neighborhood should be safer," said Lockamy.
Authorities describe the man as a black male in his early 30's wearing a red shirt, with unknown colored pants.
Neighbors say knowing the suspect is still out raises their fear.
"I’m scared I’m just going to stay in the house and not be out after dark," said resident Phonecia Smith.
Authorities ask anyone with information to call detective Chris Kraft at the Hernando County Sheriff's Office at 352-754-6830.
If you have information but wish to remain anonymous, call Hernando Crime Stoppers at 1-866-990-TIPS (8477), or visit their website and submit a tip online.
