London police have released images of a person of interest in connection with a string of sexual assaults, and they say the number of reported incidents has risen to nine.

Const. Ken Steeves says “We’re hoping that somebody is able to identify him, and notify police as to who this person is. It’s very important we identify this male.”

Investigators had previously reported six incidents between Aug. 26 and Sept. 22, with victims ranging in age from 13 to 28 years old.

Now, police say three more female victims in the same age range have reported being touched inappropriately by a male riding by on a bicycle.

The location of the most recently reported incidents include:

  • Dufferin Avenue at William Street on Aug. 28 at 2 a.m.
  • King Street at Thames Street near the foot bridge – Sept. 3 at 11:59 p.m.
  • Baseline Street at Ridout Street – Sept. 9 at 8:45 p.m.

The suspect is described as a black male in his late teens to early twenties with a light to medium complexion, medium build, 5’6” to 5’10” tall with short, curly dark hair. The hair may be braided or in dreads.

At the time of the alleged assaults the suspect was riding a BMX or mountain bike-style bicycle, possibly with white front forks.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 519-660-5842 or project@police.london.ca, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.londoncrimestoppers.com.