Multiple female real estate agents across Tampa Bay have reported alarming encounters with a man who appears to be using fake house showings to inappropriately touch women’s feet.

At least half a dozen women have come forward with strikingly similar stories about the same individual, who systematically books property viewings or attends open houses with the apparent intent of making physical contact with female agents’ feet.

Angela Julian, a Pinellas County realtor, recounted how the man claimed to spot an ant on her foot before taking disturbing liberties. “He bends down and starts unbuckling my shoe and caressing my foot,” Julian explained to WTSP. “At the same time, he’s fidgeting with his phone, petting my foot… I think he’s trying to take some type of video of my skirt. It was really alarming.”

These unsettling incidents have been occurring since at least July of last year, beginning in Pinellas County and continuing as recently as last week in Manatee County. As awareness spreads, more women are sharing their experiences of feeling violated during what should have been routine property showings.

“Very vulnerable — instantly you can sense that something’s not quite right, but you can’t really put your finger on it,” Julian added.

Les Hein, owner of Tampa Home Photos and a local realtor group moderator, warns that the man appears to be using publicly available information to target his victims. “He is searching Zillow, he’s using everything that everyone has public access to, and that is concerning,” Hein told WTSP. He noted that open houses, which often allow dozens of strangers to enter with minimal screening, create particularly vulnerable situations for agents.

Hein advises realtors considering self-defense measures to seek proper training rather than simply purchasing weapons. “If you’re carrying a firearm, you need firearm safety and practice. It is not about buying a gun and thinking you’re going to be Annie Oakley. You’re more apt to get hurt than actually protect yourself in that situation.”

Safety recommendations include implementing a buddy system for showings, keeping protective tools like pepper spray accessible, and immediately contacting authorities if confronted with suspicious behavior.

Clearwater police confirmed receiving a similar complaint in September, though no charges were filed at that time. Law enforcement officials emphasize that realtors should prioritize their safety and call 911 immediately if they encounter this individual or similar situations.

The real estate community hopes increased awareness will help agents recognize warning signs early and prevent future incidents.

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