Police in St. Catharines are investigating after a "young female" was attacked while taking out the trash.

It happened early Sunday morning in an alleyway behind a Louth St apartment building, south of Fourth Ave.

Police say she was knocked down from behind by a man who hit her several times.  He took off running.

The victim wound up with minor injuries.

Her alleged attacker is described only as being 6' tall with broad shoulders & short dark hair.

If you have any information, call police at 905-688-4111 x 4272 or contact Crime Stoppers.