Mountain town authorities are searching for a suspect accused of harassing and assaulting females on a local trail.

According to a ‘community safety alert’ from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, they’ve received multiple reports of a white male who’s approximately 30 to 35 years old committing the acts along the Mineral Belt Trail in the Leadville area. The male is reportedly accompanied by two off-leash dogs – one white in color.

More specifically, the encounters reportedly took place on a stretch of the 11.6-mile loop trail near the animal shelter, which is located on the northeast edge of town.

Per the alert from the sheriff’s office, the public has been asked to “avoid the area if possible, especially if alone.” The sheriff’s office also recommends walking in groups or pairs, keeping a phone accessible to use in the event of an emergency, and staying alert and aware.

Anyone who spots an individual matching this description or experiences concerning behavior has been instructed to call 911 or dispatch immediately. Deputies are actively monitoring the area.

There was no indication of exactly when the encounters occurred, though the announcement was made on March 19.

All suspects are to be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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