Police arrest suspect after three women sexually harassed in Graz

Police in Graz have arrested a 36-year-old man suspected of sexually harassing at least three women, ORF Steiermark reported. Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are asking them to come forward.

The alleged incidents took place between August 2 and 4 in the Straßgang district. The three women, aged between 13 and 59, were each walking their dogs near the Straßganger Bad swimming facility when the suspect approached them from behind on a bicycle.

Police said the man stopped alongside the women and touched them in the crotch or on the buttocks. He then allegedly smiled at them without saying anything before cycling away.

All three women reported the incidents. Witnesses provided police with photographs of the previously unidentified man, leading to increased patrols in the area. Officers stopped and arrested the suspect near the alleged crime scenes on Monday.

According to police, the suspect is a 36-year-old Croatian man who is homeless and unemployed. He denied the allegations during questioning. On the orders of the public prosecutor’s office, he was taken to Graz-Jakomini prison.

Police said questioning produced indications that the man could be responsible for further cases of sexual harassment. Potential victims and witnesses are asked to contact a police station in Graz and file a report.