LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville Metro Police is taking a new approach to help people feel safe at Cherokee Park.

After reports of men exposing themselves and groping women at the park, officers with LMPD's Impact Unit will patrol the park day and night.

The hope is that the increased police presence allows visitors to once again enjoy the park freely and without fear.

"No one should be living in fear. We should be able to walk through our parks without worrying about that kind of thing," said officer John Keeling, with LMPD's Fifth Division.

Maggie Hitt, a Louisville mother who frequents the park, said she's taken her own steps to protect her safety.

"I've had times where there were cars slowly passing, and I got nervous and got my phone out and tried to record them," said Hitt. "And I always bring my little obnoxious dog, because she's a barker and I do feel a little bit safer with a dog."

Earlier this month, LMPD released a photo of a man believed to be connected to the acts being reported, and said Wednesday there may be another suspect, though a photo has not yet been released. As of May 14, the department had taken at least two incident reports from the park near the golf course and in the Highlands area.

Keeling said adding the Impact Unit officers to the park is proactive policing.

"And by that I mean going out and looking for problems, rather than waiting for the radio to dispatch them," he said.

Hitt said the promise of the added police presence is reassuring.

"I feel good about that. I think anything they can do to help would make me feel safer," she said.

Charles and Jacqueline Hawkins are teachers who live in Valley Station and travel to the park once a month. 

"Every time we're here, I see a lot of single ladies walking the trail or running the trail, and I know they would feel safer just knowing there are people watching out for them," Jacqueline Hawkins said.

The couple said they're happy to hear LMPD is stepping up patrols.

"I think it's an excellent use of their time and their resources," said Charles Hawkins. "There's a lot of children here and they don't need to be seeing that type of stuff."

LMPD is encouraging park visitors to continue being proactive and aware of their surroundings. If you notice any unusual activity, you're urged to call police at (502) 574-LMPD (5673).

Anyone who may have information about potential suspects in the Cherokee Park incidents is asked to call LMPD's anonymous Crime Tip Line at (502) 574-LMPD (5673). Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the department's Crime Tip Portal by clicking here.

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