An alleged man following and photographing women on Bayshore Boulevard has sparked concern across social media, with multiple women sharing videos and personal accounts to warn others to stay alert while running.
Several TikTok users have posted about their encounters with the alleged man, claiming he photographs female runners along Bayshore Boulevard.
Brice Marie said she was among those who reported the individual to the Tampa Police Department after multiple encounters during her runs.
"When I was on my run I saw a car parked in the median on Bayshore Blvd., which isn't common," Marie said. "The guy had a large camera pointed at me and at first I thought he was taking pictures of the sunset. I get a couple intersections down and I saw him again with his camera pointed at me. I decided to go back down my route and I turned around and saw him again."
Marie said she first encountered the man during a five-mile run.
A few weeks later, she said she saw him again while running and recorded a video. After another encounter last week, she decided to file a police report.
"I started receiving messages from other women through social media who also experienced this man on Bayshore," Marie said. "I just want to spread awareness about this because it's unsettling to experience."
TPD said it is aware of community concerns regarding an individual reportedly photographing female runners and understands that unverified reports circulating on social media can create anxiety for those who are frequently in the area.
"Our highest priority is the safety and well-being of everyone in our community. We often share an important saying with our residents: 'See something, say something, so we can do something.' Be assured that Tampa Police officers routinely patrol throughout the city, including along Bayshore Boulevard, in uniform and in unmarked cars to ensure public safety," TPD officials said.
According to TPD, officers recently met with the individual.
"In this case, there was no violation of the law. While photography in public spaces is a constitutionally protected activity under the First Amendment when there is no reasonable expectation of privacy, these rights are not absolute," TPD officials said.
The department encourages anyone who witnesses behavior that appears threatening, persistent or makes them feel unsafe to report it immediately by calling TPD at (813) 231-6130 rather than posting about it on social media.
"Call immediately so officers can respond quickly, identify the individuals involved and investigate firsthand to determine if a crime has been committed. In an emergency, always call 911," TPD officials said.
TPD also advises residents to avoid confronting individuals they believe are acting suspiciously and to avoid escalating situations through social media, as doing so could compromise safety or interfere with an active investigation.
"We encourage our community to remain attentive to their surroundings, trust their instincts and partner with us by reporting suspicious incidents directly rather than relying on online forums," TPD officials said.
Social media posts identify the individual as someone who has allegedly been seen riding a bicycle or driving a blue van along Bayshore Boulevard. TPD urges anyone who believes they are being followed or feels unsafe to report the incident immediately so officers can investigate.