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Youth soccer player sexually battered in Golden Gate Park restroom
Police are investigating the sexual battery of a youth soccer player in a SF Golden Gate Park restroom last week. There are increased patrols and other heightened security measures in place.
SAN FRANCISCO - Police in San Francisco are investigating the sexual battery of a minor that happened last Thursday in a Golden Gate Park restroom near the Polo Fields.
What we know:
Police told KTVU on Monday that the sexual battery happened at around 5:30 p.m. Police said they are diligently working on what they called a "high-priority" case.
"Since the incident occurred, SFPD has increased patrol in the Richmond and is working closely with the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department. This is an active investigation that is moving rapidly, and we hope to have an update promptly," the SFPD said.
A spokesperson for San Francisco Rec and Park said that in light of this assault, increased security measures are in place at the Polo Fields.
"A San Francisco Park Ranger is now stationed near the restrooms on weekdays between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., when youth are primarily using the field," said Daniel Montes, SF Rec and Park communications manager.
He said this is in addition to a regular field monitor who goes back and forth between Beach Chalet and Polo Fields during the after-school hours until 6:30 p.m.
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"Rangers are also conducting additional spot checks throughout the day, including weekends," said Montes. "A security camera has been installed in the area to support the investigation and enhance safety monitoring."
SF Youth Soccer Statement
SF Youth Soccer said they learned about the assault on Friday morning from a volunteer coach. "Our deepest sympathies go out to the player, their family, friends, and the entire team," a spokesperson said in their statement.
The league confirmed that one of its teams notified them that one of its players was involved.
After learning about the assault, the organization said they issued a safety reminder email regarding the players to all of their team administrators. As part of this safety first reminder, they urged teams to have players use the restrooms in groups of two or three during practices and games. "We will continue to partner with the community to ensure all players are safe," the organization's statement read.
The co-ed youth soccer league is for players aged 8 to 18.
What we don't know:
Police did not include information about the minor victim, nor did they have details about the potential suspect.
SFPD Officer Robert Rueca said they are not releasing any suspect information at this time. "We are still working with eyewitnesses and trying to gather more evidence in terms of video surveillance, in terms of photographs," Rueca said.
This is a developing news story. We will update this as we learn the latest details.
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