Police are searching for a man they say sexually abused a young girl in Mount Hope.

Police say the incident happened just before 8 a.m. on Thursday near Morris Avenue and East 179th Street.

News 12 is told the man walked up to 11-year-old girl from behind, groped her body and tried to kiss her. She fought him off and the suspect ran off.

Police say the victim was not hurt.

The suspect is believed to be between 17 and 20-years-old and last seen wearing that gray hooded sweater, black pants and black sneakers.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.