Forsyth County

Jogger tells police man touched her inappropriately on popular walking trail

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A jogger told police that a man sneaked up behind her and grabbed her on a popular walking trail in Forsyth County Wednesday.

Police told Channel 2's Lauren Pozen that the incident happened in the early morning on the Big Creek Greenway, a nearly 20-mile trail through the woods.

The woman was able to get away and wasn't injured, but it did leave her rattled.

Police are still searching for the suspect, who the woman described as a man in his mid-30s with a muscular build and clean-shaven.

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Until they catch him, police are increasing patrols in the area.

Pozen said several squad cars were near the trail Thursday. The trail was also bustling with walkers, runners and bikers.

Pozen talked to one woman who said she rides her bike on the Greenway nearly every day, and she usually feels pretty safe.

"It makes me a little more cautious," she said.

Trish Hungerbuhler said she isn't taking any chances.

"It's pretty scary," Hungerbuhler said. "We live on the other end, seven miles away down on Bethelview and we've never really had any problems."

The family said some parts of the trail are more visible than others. The stretch near McFarland Parkway, where the assault happened, is in a more isolated area.

Deputies are warning people who come out to the trail to be aware of their surroundings.

Steve Churma told Pozen that he walks the trail regularly but is worried about his wife.

"I told my wife yesterday that she is not coming out here by herself, no doubt about it," Churma said.

Biker Rosie Terbrueggen said she's especially cautious when she's on the trail by herself.

"I am very aware of people and I always acknowledge them, especially if they are single guys by themselves," Terbrueggen said. "I just say 'hello,' but keep riding fast. "

One trail user suggested police install emergency blue boxes. That way, if there is a situation, help can get there right away.

Churma said the extra police presence is welcome.

"I saw one cop today. That's one thing I said to my wife," Churma said. "I haven't seen a cop here in maybe months. Now that there's a problem, they are going to be here."