Man sought in assaults of two girls

Spokane Valley police want the public’s help finding a man who assaulted two young girls in a mall clothing store.

The man is described as 28 years old, 5-foot-7 and 170 pounds, Spokane Valley police spokesman Cpl. Dave Reagan said Monday. The man was wearing a yellow jacket and blue jeans during one of the assaults.

The first assault occurred on Dec. 29 in Claire’s Boutique at the Spokane Valley Mall, Reagan said. A 10-year-old girl was shopping with her mother and was in a different part of the store when she felt a hand on her bottom. The girl thought it was an affectionate pat from her mom, but when she turned around, a man was walking quickly away, Reagan said.

The girl didn’t immediately tell her mom what happened because she was too embarrassed, Reagan said.

The second assault was reported on Jan. 2, Reagan said. A Washington State Patrol officer at Claire’s Boutique overheard employees talking about a sexual assault that had just happened.

An 11-year-old girl was standing in line at the store when she noticed a man staring at her, Reagan said. The man approached the girl and bumped into her. He fondled her, then apologized as if it were an accident.

Anyone with information should call (509) 242-8477.