Police investigate two sex crimes in SouthPark

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Police are investigating two separate sex crimes in and near Charlotte’s popular SouthPark mall.

A 64-year-old woman said someone touched her inappropriately and against her will in September in the SouthPark mall. Police said the person also masturbated in front of her.

An hour before that report was taken, police were called to Harris Teeter across from the mall.

A 26-year-old woman said she was in the parking lot Thursday morning and saw someone exposing himself.

Shoppers are uneasy after hearing the news.

“That’s kind of strange because this is a really, really nice area,” said shopper Beth Simmons.

Police haven’t released the identities of the men but said the two reporting women do not know them.

“It’s concerning anywhere, especially here, but you never can tell,” said shopper Doris Freeman.

Women shoppers said the incidents serve as a good reminder for everyone to be alert and to tell police if they see anything unusual.

“You really try to make sure everybody is safe, but anything awkward you see, you should definitely report it,” Freeman said.

It’s not clear if the two incidents are connected. Police haven’t made any arrests.

Cox Media Group