In the past two weeks, police have responded to an increased number of indecent assault and battery reports in the Harvard Square area, according to a release from the Cambridge Police Department.

The department is “cautioning women who live, work or frequent the Harvard Square area to be aware of [the] recent increase,’’ the release states.

Women reported five indecent assault and batteries—in which they were groped—to police between August 26 and September 8, according to the release. The assaults took place between 7 and 10:15 p.m. Victims all described the suspect as a stocky, black male about 5-foot-10 and in his mid-20s—however, police do not know if there are any connections between the assaults.


Cambridge police have arrested and charged three men with indecent assault and battery in the past month.

Cambridge police are working with the Harvard University Police Department to investigate the four open cases. Patrols have been added to Harvard Square and the surrounding area.