Man broke into Roseland home, sexually assaulted girl, 7, Chicago police say

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago police are searching for the man who allegedly sexually assaulted a child on the far South Side early Thursday morning.

The 7-year-old girl was asleep in her home about 3 a.m. near 102nd Street and Indiana Avenue in Roseland when police said the attacker broke in through a bedroom window and assaulted her.

"The neighborhood has got to deal with this now. We've got someone assaulting children and we don't know who it is," said neighbor Danielle Jones.

Jones said she was up but never heard anything when the man apparently broke into the girl's house by pushing the air conditioner unit through window.

The man took off when the girl's father discovered him, CPD said. He was last seen in the 102nd Street alley between Forest and Prairie avenues.

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"I have a problem with that I have children in this community," said fellow neighbor Shiquita Davis.

Police have released a community alert describing the incident and including a general description of the suspect. Neighbors hope he' s taken in soon.

"Hurting a child? That's beyond reprehensible. It really is," Jones added.

Police said residents should call 911 to report suspicious activity, be aware of unusual debris and litter in private areas of your property and be aware of moved or displaced outdoor furnishings.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Special Investigation Unit at 312-492-3810. Anonymous tips can be submitted via CPDTIP.com.