A "serial urinator" is on the loose near the University of Florida, where police in Gainesville said he is targeting women on campus.

"We've had a gentleman -- he's not a gentleman -- we've had a suspect around the campus area that is urinating on females at different times of the day," said Gainesville police Officer Ben Tobias.

Police said the unknown male has reportedly been walking up to random women near the campus and urinating on them before he takes off running.

The University of Florida has advised students and staff to protect themselves:

  • If you see something suspicious, call 911.
     
  • If someone walks up to you or someone else, gets close or asks for directions, you should back away.

  • If you are wearing headphones, pay attention to your surroundings, especially behind you.

According to the Gainesville Sun, the suspect was described as a dark-skinned man between 25 and 30 years old, 6 feet tall, medium to chunky build, with short curly hair. He was last seen wearing a gray or dark-colored hoodie and baggy jeans.

Gainesville police have increased patrols in the area of the campus. They said the incidents occurred Feb. 22, Feb. 26 and March 1 in various locations near the university.