Photo: Willie Richardson (Livermore PD)
LIVERMORE — Willie J. Richardson, a 35-year-old resident of Livermore, was arrested on suspicion of committing sexual battery on women. Several victims were accosted from behind while jogging before the suspect fled.
A series of sexual battery incidents involving women began occurring on December 5. These incidents all happened near a jogging trail close to the intersection of East Avenue and South Vasco Road.
Women reported being approached by a masked man, while they were jogging between 9 and 10 a.m. The victims were groped from behind, but no one was reported injured.
Richardson was arrested on January 18 without incident and his residence was searched for evidence. Detectives recovered evidence linking him to the reported sexual batteries, and there may be more.
Richardson was booked at Alameda County’s Santa Rita Jail in Dublin. Multiple charges were filed against him on January 20.
In a prepared statement, Livermore Police Chief Jeramy Young said. “Now our community can rest a little easier knowing this man has been arrested.”
Richardson presently faces charges involving at least four victims. His charges include sexual battery by restraint, and assault with intent to commit a sex crime.
Including various enhancements, he faces a total of 20 separate charges.
The investigation remains open. Detectives are working to identify potential additional victims. Anyone with information can call the Livermore Police Department at 925-371-4790. Anonymous tips can be left.
