BOSTON (CBS) – An assault on a woman in the North End this weekend has police stepping up patrols.

The latest incident happened on Prince Street Friday. Police say a woman was walking alone just before midnight when a man suddenly grabbed her and forcibly kissed her.

It’s a section of the historic neighborhood that’s busy and well-lit. Cafes and bakeries line the street right around the corner from the famous Pizzeria Regina.

“I’m not usually scared hanging out down here, there’s a lot of people always around,” says Rachel Johnson who lives nearby.

It’s the second North End attack on a woman in the last year, and the 17th attack in the last decade. Police say the latest incident has different circumstances, but they say they can’t rule out a possible link.

“In general, I think it’s pretty safe, but it’s scary that stuff can still happen,” says neighbor Tori Carpenito.

Police are organizing self-defense classes for anyone who’s interested.

The suspect is described as a white, Mediterranean or Hispanic male, late 20′s to early 30′s, approximately 5’6”- 5′-8”, medium build with short dark hair and a goatee. The suspect is also described as “well-groomed” and wearing a dark-colored, hip length wool coat , jeans, possibly a dark shirt and dark shoes.