In light of an attack on a man in Coachella Valley, the Palm Springs Police Department issued a warning on Facebook urging those who use online dating platforms to exercise caution during in-person encounters with people they meet online.
"Sexual assault crimes are taken very seriously, and victims are encouraged to report the crime immediately to their local law enforcement agency," PSPD said on Facebook, adding that predators are known to frequent dating sites to target unsuspecting and trusting people. "As online dating has become more popular, victims have reported being subjected to harassment, theft, money scams, fraud, stalking, and physical and sexual abuse by someone whom they met online."
This warning followed discussions about a dating app assault in January that occurred while a gay man from St. Petersburg, was meeting up with an online acquaintance in Palm Springs, according to KESQ. Identifying the victim as Rand Snell, the article said he was drugged and raped, burned, beaten, bitten and kicked during his dating app-prompted encounter.
In describing the predator's tactics, KESQ said he drugged Snell from behind, which caused him to spend a few hours lapsing in and out of consciousness during which the assault took place. Ultimately Snell required hospital care for his injuries, the report said.
PSPD are investigating in hopes of finding the suspect, whom Snell told KESQ may have attacked others in a similar manner based on his efforts to find other victims and hear their stories. Snell also told KESQ that he decided to take action after investigations seemed to falter. He has described the suspect as being of Turkish origin and in his early 50s, and likely a resident of the Palm Springs or Desert Hot Springs area, according to the news article.
With the suspect still on the loose, PSPD said on Facebook that it is closely working with Snell to effectuate an arrest and notes the crime was reported without delay.
PSPD took the opportunity to offer online dating safety tips. For starters, the department said get a step up on safety by choosing a reputable dating site or app, but then safeguard personal information, including a personal email address, and steer clear of suspicious profiles even researching those who might not be suspicious. Before an in-person meeting, advise a friend or family member of the encounter, choose a public setting for initial dates and don't rush into things. At no point should one answer a request for money.
"Remember, your safety should always be a top priority, and taking precautions can help ensure that your online dating experience is a positive one," PSPD said.