Community pushes for cameras at Rainbow Beach after 4-year-old sexually assaulted in restroom
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Community activists are renewing the search for the man accused of sexually assaulting a 4-year-old on the Fourth of July.
Chicago Police say the victim was in the restroom at Rainbow Beach when a man came in, assaulted the child and ran away.
Community groups want the city to install more security cameras in the area, which they say some North Side beaches have.
"Never should our children fear coming to a place like this to enjoy theyself, after living under gunshots and all kind of other things that they suffer with in Chicago. This is supposed to be a safe place for family fun and enjoyment," said Chicago Against Violence CEO Andre Smith.
Activists are offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction, and warning parents after the attack.
"Never ever allow your child to go to a public bathroom here in the City of Chicago, anywhere in Chicago because because you never know what's lurking inside," said Tio Hardiman, executive director of Violence Interrupters.
Investigators have released a sketch of the man who attacked the child, and described him as a man between 35 and 45 years old, standing 5-foot-8 to 5-foot-10, with a medium build, short black hair, and unshaven facial hair. He was last seen wearing a tan t-shirt, green shorts, and black sandals.
A sketch of the suspect has been posted on the door of the restroom where the child was attacked, and a nearby bulletin board at Rainbow Beach. Activists also spent the morning on Monday handing out flyers in hopes that someone will recognize the man.
Police are asking anyone who recognizes him to call the Special Investigations Unit at 312-492-3810 or 312-492-3806.
Police also said anyone who might have been at Rainbow Beach between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on July 4th and took any photos or videos to check their footage for the man in the sketch, and if you see him, contact police at the phone numbers above.
