Police: Roanoke Woman Assaulted in Front of Home

Roanoke police said they need the public's help finding a man who assaulted a woman in front of her own home.

The woman was approached in the Briarwyck subdivision by a man armed with a knife and riding a bicycle Saturday night, according to officials with the Roanoke Police Department; the woman was at her mailbox checking for mail at the time.

Police said this was an assault with sexual implications and they are withholding additional details as to not compromise the investigation.

Police described the man as white, thin, about 5-feet, 8-inches tall and in his late 20s to early 30s. The woman told police he was wearing a dark baseball cap, dark blue jacket pulled up over his face and dark pants.

Detective Sandy Pettigrew reminds folks to always be alert; especially as the sun is setting earlier in the night.

"If you don't have to be outside alone that's always better, but just be cautious especially when lighting is an issue,” said Pettigrew.

Neighbors said Tuesday that they have noticed a significant increase in police presence since the assault was reported and said that they personally are keeping a close eye out for their families and neighbors.