FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Two women were violated at a movie theater and clothing store in Fort Myers.
Police said one woman was groped by a man while watching a movie.
Another woman was in a dressing room when a man took pictures up her skirt.
Police are still on the lookout for both perps.
Inside Burlington in Fort Myers, police said a man took photos up a woman’s skirt in the dressing room. The victim was then able to capture a photo of the guy inside the store.
“With that information, police can easily arrest that individual,” said former police chief Walter Zalisko.
Zalisko shared some advice for holiday shoppers on what to do when you’re in a dressing room.
“Look around see if anyone is standing by particularly when you’re walking in. See if there are any males close by just watching you,” said Zalisko.
Zalisko also said be extra aware and have your keys ready to go when walking to your car. That way you’re less of a target.
“Criminals don’t want to be in a position where they can be easily identified or bring attention to them,” said Zalisko. “What they are trying to do is bring the element of surprise to their victim.”
A woman inside the movie theater at Bell Tower was caught by surprise.
In a report, police said last Friday, the victim was getting a drink at the concession when a man approached her,asking if she was alone. She said yes.
“You never admit that you’re alone because that’s just going to get the guy more interested in what he wants to do,” said Zalisko.
Police said the man followed her back to her seat and started groping her legs and chest.
“She should have gotten up right away,” said Zalisko. “When something like this happens to you, when someone touches you, start screaming in a movie theatre.”
The woman did leave right away but Zalisko said getting a good description is key.
In this case, the victim said the man was white, 5’ 9 and about 200 pounds. He had grey hair and wore plaid shorts and a polo shirt.
If you have a helpful tip for police, send it their new free app called ‘True Blue’ or just call crime stoppers.
