Man in Edenwald park targeted boys for sexual encounters, police say

BRONX, N.Y. (WABC) -- Police in the Bronx are looking for a man who has targeted young boys repeatedly in the Edenwald section and forced them into sexual encounters.

The suspect's image was captured on two different security cameras and NYPD investigators distributed the video.

"Horrible, honestly," said Gary Oden, a parent.

In Seton Falls Park, on three different days starting back in August he has lured young male students 12 to 15 years old by offering them money to help carry his bags.

They end up in the park where police say he then forcibly touches them.

"It scares me. Even last night when I was walking home late, I kept looking behind like I was frightened when I heard that," said Onorina Petrone, a parent.

Two incidents have occurred since school started, and there are three schools in the area.

"Yes! It's the scariest thing in the world. It really, really is. And I know so many of the children, being here so long. So I hope they will catch him," said Anna Hall, a teacher and parent.

The suspect is a man, in his 30's, approximately 5'3", slim build, shaved head, and foreign accent.

The suspect was seen wearing brown sandals, a blue t-shirt, and black shorts during at least one of the incidents.

Police later handed a sketch out to school officials of the suspect as described in the third incident involving a 12-year-old boy.

As students left school, parents and teachers were on alert and police were also on patrol in the park.

Oden was waiting near the school for his children.

"He plays ball over here. My daughter goes to school here. And honestly hearing about this I am really reluctant to come to the park now," Oden said.

Investigators are hoping someone recognizes him so they can stop this dangerous predator of young students.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).