Police release sketch of attacker in Pennsville sex assault

A woman using a portable toilet in a popular park along the Delaware River in Pennsville, Salem County, N.J., was sexually assaulted, police say, just yards from a playground.

Police in Pennsville say the attacker forced his way into the blue portable toilet inside Riverview Beach Park between 5 and 5:30 p.m. last Saturday and hit the 40-year-old resident on the head before sexually assaulting her. No arrest has been made, but police released a sketch of the suspect yesterday.

Once a popular amusement park in the early 20th century, Riverview Beach Park remains a centerpiece in the quiet town and is home to Halloween hayrides, walking trails, athletic fields, views of the river and the Delaware Memorial Bridge, and an annual Septemberfest that draws thousands. Portions of the 2006 film "Annapolis," with James Franco, were filmed there.

Lt. Allen Cummings, of the Pennsville Police Department, said the assault has the town on edge and patrols have been increased. The park is well-lit, including the area where the assault took place, Cummings said, but cautioned anyone coming to the park to "be careful."

"This is a very big deal here," he said.

Cummings said the assault took place near a playground and the park's main parking lot on North Broadway. He said kids were playing basketball about 100 yards from the toilet.

The attacker fled the park after the assault and the woman was treated for cuts and abrasions.

Police described the attacker as a Hispanic male with a tan or olive complexion, about 5 feet 6 inches tall with a thin build. He was wearing a dark knit hat and dark jacket.

Anyone with information about the assault or the attacker is asked to contact the Pennsville Police Department at 856-678-3089, extension 526.