Man accused of sexually assaulting 12-year-old girl in library parking lot

CHANDLER, Ariz. - Police are searching for a suspect accused of sexually assaulting an underage girl in the parking lot of the Basha Library.

Officials say the suspect, who arrived at the library near Val Vista Drive and Riggs Road, approached the 12-year-old victim as she stood in front of the building.

"Believing he needed help with his homework, the victim walked with the suspect to an older model white four-door sedan. Once in the vehicle, the suspect sexually assaulted the victim," stated Detective Seth Tyler of the Chandler Police Department.

The suspect is described as a male with a dark complexion between 18 and 25 years of age. He's over 5' 8" tall and at the time of the assault, was wearing a flannel shirt, baggy jeans and tennis shoes.

"The victim further told investigators the suspect spoke with poor English," said Tyler, noting improper grammar, not an accent. "The victim disclosed the assault to a health care professional in June of 2017."

If you have any information about this case, call Silent Witness. You can remain anonymous and receive a cash award up to $1,000 for tips leading to an arrest or indictment of this suspect.

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