Police Search For Man Who Attacked Woman At Lake Hefner

Police are searching for a man accused of attacking a woman at a popular metro lake. It is the latest in a slew of crimes at Lake Hefner's Hobie Point.

5/7/12 Related Story: OKC Police Release Sketch Of Sexual Battery Suspect

Those familiar with the lake say crime has become a problem.

"It's not as safe as some parks are," said park visitor Derinda Heaslet. "I usually don't come out here alone."

Police say the lake's latest problem is a man accused of trying to sexually assault a woman at the Hobie Point beach. The victim and her boyfriend were parked at Hobie Point shortly before midnight. That's when a man walked up to their car.

"They immediately saw somebody shining a flashlight in their car," said Oklahoma City police Sgt. Jennifer Wardlow. "He identified himself as Lake Hefner security."

Police say there is no such thing as Lake Hefner security. According to a police report, the suspect told the woman she was breaking the park's curfew. He ordered her out of the car, asked for oral sex and attacked her. Police say the victim was able to escape just as her attacker tried throwing her in his car.

"This is a disturbing situation," Wardlow said.

It's not the only disturbing situation to make news at Lake Hefner. For years, Hobie Point has been making police reports.

In April of 2009, 18 men were arrested for lewd conduct after exposing themselves to undercover officers. In February of 2012, 16 men were arrested on similar complaints. Park visitors say all of that shady business is depressing a place intended for family fun.

"It's a wonderful place to come out," Heaslet said. "It's usually very pleasant."

Police believe the attack is an isolated incident, and they want to keep it that way. The suspect is described as a 25-year-old white male standing 6 feet tall and weighing 250 pounds. If you recognize him, call Crime Stoppers at (405)-235-7300.