By Grant Bissell

Des Peres, MO (KSDK) - Des Peres Police say they've identified a man who they're calling a "serial hugger."

The department has gotten complaints about the man from women in Des Peres, St. Peters, High Ridge, near Ballwin and in Fairview Heights.

They just learned this has been going on for about a year.

A woman shopping at the Schnucks in Des Peres says the man approached her and said he knew her. She says he gave vague details about being a former neighbor, then said it was his birthday and asked for a hug.

The woman says she gave him a hug, but then called police afterward.

Police say right now it's not clear if what the man's doing is a crime, but they want women to be careful.

"It'll be up to the prosecuting attorney's office whether or not this is considered a crime. Our intent right now is to just identify this individual, conduct an interview with him, see what his intentions are and then we'll forward the case to the prosecutor's office for consideration of charges," said Det. Marshall Broughton with Des Peres Public Safety.

If you think you've had contact with the man you can call the Des Peres Police Department at 314-835-6200.

 

KSDK