Several women who walk and run the five-mile trail loop around Scripps Ranch’s Lake Miramar say they’ve been startled by a man who is acting suspiciously.
The complaints range from being followed, to watching him dart in and out of the bushes, to hiding in the brush-filled areas off the main path where there aren’t dirt trails.
San Diego Police confirm the complaints.
“The person has been identified and spoken to. A long-term solution is being worked on,” said Lt. Kevin Mayer.
The situation is complicated because the man hasn’t broken any laws, but it is a startling reminder for women who walk the trail to be alert.
“I have heard of the problems they’ve had here, and I take that to heart,” said Dorothy Engel, who carries a whistle attached to her key ring.
The trail is generally well trafficked, but there are coves where single walkers or joggers might find themselves alone.
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“I remember the Chelsea King incident back in Poway and that is when I started to bring my mace and rape whistle anywhere I go,” said Sammy Mahew.
Most women say they feel comfortable and safe walking the trail, but are leery of walking alone when it starts to get dark.
“It closes at 6:30 typically so we tend to come way before the sun goes down,” said Anna Nguyen.
