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(1 of ) Sonoma Overlook Trail (ADAM G./ YELP)

RANDI ROSSMANN

THE PRESS DEMOCRAT | April 17, 2017, 1:53PM

| Updated 11 minutes ago.

Jogging on a popular route in northern Sonoma, a 24yearold woman was attacked from behind, punched and sexually assaulted by a bushy bearded suspect who Monday remained at large, according to a Sonoma County sheriffs spokesman.

Sunday afternoons assault came on Norrbom Road, near the Sonoma Overlook Trail and not far from youth sports fields, said sheriffs Sgt. Spencer Crum.

As the Sonoma Valley woman jogged along the east side of the roadway, a man yelled at her and then suddenly pushed her from behind, knocking her to the ground, said Crum.

The man, who was described as having a white bushy beard and strong body odor, fell on top of her. He punched her repeatedly in the face and then reached inside her clothing in an attempt to rape her, Crum said.

Fighting back, she escaped and called 911 on her cellphone. The 1:15 p.m. assault report launched an extensive search just north of the historic Sonoma Plaza, from First Street West up into the hills along Norrbom Road, and including Mountain Cemetery and the trail.

The sheriffs helicopter, a Santa Rosa police dog, deputies and police officers looked for the man, described as being in his 50s, possibly homeless, wearing a black zipup hooded sweatshirt, a black sweater, dirty jeans and a black beanie.

The man was not found. The Sheriffs Office didnt report the crime until early Monday afternoon.

Deputies have increased patrols in the area, including walking the trail on Monday, said Sonoma Police Chief Bret Sackett. Sackett said such crimes are very rare in the area.

The area is just outside city limits. Its typically busy with joggers and walkers on the overlook trail, which offers Sonoma Valley views. Its also steps from Arnold Fields baseball and softball diamonds, Depot Park and the city police department.

On a nice summer day, its packed with people, said Crum.

Sunday afternoon was rainy and gray and no witnesses have come forward. Law enforcement officials warned anyone walking or jogging in the area to take precautions and report anyone suspicious.

Crum asked anyone with information to call detectives at 707-565-2185.

You can reach Staff Writer Randi Rossmann at 707521-5412 or randi.rossmann@pressdemocrat.com.

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Woman jogging in Sonoma reports attack, sexual assault - Santa Rosa Press Democrat