Police investigate sexual misconduct with a child at Avondale park; suspect search continues

AVONDALE, Ariz. (FOX 10) -- It's a Valley park that's popular among children and families, but now people who go there are very concerned after a young boy reported a disturbing crime.

On one side of Donnie Hale Park near 108th Avenue and West Pima Street, there is a senior center and on the other side, children get dropped off by a school bus each day. Some of them stop to play in the park, but police say a boy was just simply walking along when he was approached by a suspicious man.

Avondale police are looking to identify a Hispanic male described 5' 7" to 5' 8" tall, a "chubby" build, a greying beard, yellow, "rotting" teeth and short brown hair with a receding hairline. He was last seen wearing a grey shirt and green shorts.

Investigators say the boy reported that the man he described made sexual contact with him on April 17 at about 2:30 p.m. The alleged victim did not require medical help.

"Other than the contact being of a sexual nature, it is not specifically disclosed," said Sgt. David Jones.

Jones says there were no witnesses and the juvenile boy immediately called the police.

"There's no reason for us to believe at this time that the victim is not being truthful. This is about what happened and we're trying to investigate to determine to follow up."

Parents like Maria Lammas, who wait at the park to pick up their children are concerned.

"We come and pick them up every day and what about sometimes we don't come and somebody can do something to your kids.. that's dangeorus for everybody."

Police say the man of interest walked away after allegedly committing the sexual act, but there is no public threat at this time.

"We believe this is an isolated incident at this time. It's not anything that we have reported in the past or in the span of any other incidents that we are aware of," said Jones.

If you have any information about this case or the suspect's whereabouts, contact the Avondale Police Department at 623-333-7382 or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS. You can remain anonymous and receive a cash award for tips leading to an arrest or indictment.