Man exposes himself to jogger on American Tobacco Trail, police say

A man exposed himself on Wednesday to a woman who was jogging on the American Tobacco Trail in Durham, police said.

The woman was jogging south on the trail just outside of downtown around noon when the man, who was heading north on the trail, approached her. Police said the man exposed himself and briefly followed the victim.

The woman was not injured.

The suspect was described as a black male, 28 to 30 years old, 5 feet 6 inches tall with an average build. He had short hair, stubble on his face and red, bloodshot eyes.

He was wearing jeans and a black cotton T-shirt.

Police have not apprehended the suspect.

In the 911 call, the woman said the man went back on the trail after the incident.

Durham police said officers patrol the trail, but crimes still happen. The Durham Police Department recommends carrying a cellphone and traveling on the trails with another person.

Wayne Jackson said he spends time ont the American Tobacco Trail several times these weeks. He said in general he thinks the trail is a secure place to walk or run.

"I keep a look around myself all the time," he said. "But this is a great trail. It’s good for people that want to get out and enjoy stuff. And it’s really sad that people are doing things like that"

Casey Fyfe also frequents the trail and said in general she feels secure.

"I feel pretty safe" she said. "But I usually will bring my dog or my husband. Go with somebody. I don’t typically run it alone"

Anyone with information is asked to call Sergeant Wiggins at 919-560-4440, ext. 29318.