Farmington police release sketch of suspect in attempted sexual assault case

Tuesday, August 8, 2017 at 12:00 AM

The suspect is described as a Native American male, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall weighing between 160 and 180 lbs. He was wearing a long-sleeve shirt with either a logo or other markings on the upper sleeves, black pants and possibly white athletic shoes with black accents.

From Farmington Police Department:

Detectives with the Farmington Police Department have been investigating a serious assault and attempted sexual assault that occurred in the area of Berg Park on July 21. Today, the victim in the case met with a sketch artist who was able to create a facial composite of the suspect.

If you believe you know this individual, please contact the Farmington Police Department Detective Division at (505) 599-1005. Anonymous tips may be submitted to San Juan County Crimes Stoppers at (505) 334-TIPS.

Earlier information from Farmington Police Department on July 24, 2017:

Farmington police are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect in a serious assault and attempted sexual assault that occurred in the area of Berg Park around 3:00 p.m. on July 21. A 25-year -old female was walking on a trail when she was grabbed from behind. The woman was able to fight off her attacker and call for help. She was transported to San Juan Regional Medical Center and treated for injuries sustained in the struggle. The woman was released a few hours later.

The suspect is described as a Native American male, thin build, around six feet tall, wearing a white bandanna, white long sleeve shirt and black pants. Farmington detectives are working on several leads but are requesting additional help from the public to assist in the investigation.

Chief Hebbe expressed FPD’s dedication to keeping the park safe, “The Riverwalk is one of many beautiful assets in our community, frequented by individuals and families seeking outdoor recreation year round. Violent crimes are very rare on the trails, but all citizens should exercise caution when traveling alone. We want our citizens to continue enjoying the area and FPD has increased patrols to deter any further incidents. You will see a noticeable increase in the number of officers present as we work to find this suspect and ensure the trails remain a safe place for everyone.”

Anyone with information may contact the Detective Division at 599-1005. Anonymous tips may be submitted to San Juan County Crime Stoppers at 334-TIPS. We will update you with any new information as the investigation progresses.

More from Local News

Gov. to Visit Flood-Stricken San Juan County

The governor’s visit was carefully scheduled to give first responders, law enforcement and emergency vehicles ample time to complete rescues and other emergency work during the flooding. Now that the floodwaters are receding and initial damage assessments are underway, the Governor will survey the disaster zone and work to get families the help they need.
National Guard, State Police carry out rescues as historic flooding hits San Juan County

New Mexico Governor Lujan Grisham preparing request for federal disaster declaration
Bloomfield: Wastewater Emergency

Bloomfield Residents and businesses: please minimize water use until further notice. Postpone laundry and dishwasher use, keep showers brief, and reduce toilet flushing when practical and sanitary. Every reduction helps limit wastewater entering the river.
Kirtland Students on Remote Learning thru Thursday

The district has worked with the Lower Valley Water Users Association on the testing needed to lift the boil water notice. Because of the number of tests required, the district has decided to keep students on remote learning as a precaution for their well-being. If test results come back early, the district must still follow processes and protocols to flush and clear the water lines at each school before in-person instruction can resume. Safety is our top priority for the well-being of our Kirtland students.
*UPDATE* Boil Water Advisory Lifted for Lower Valley Water Users

Water Samples taken from the Lower Valley Water Association system have tested negative for e-coli. The Boil Water notice has been lifted for customers.
Woman's Husband Arrested for Kirtland Killing

Through the course of the investigation, detectives discovered that Lauren Patterson’s husband, Jess Patterson, had previously resided in California and had been arrested at least 6 times for domestic violence in that state and had been arrested in July 2026 in New Mexico for battering Ms. Patterson. An autopsy revealed Ms. Patterson suffered multiple broken bones, bruising, and internal injuries.