Woodland Hills: On Tuesday, August 28, 2001, at 12:05 PM, West Valley officers responded to a radio call of an assault with a deadly weapon suspect in the 4900 block of Reforma Road. Francis Griffin identified himself as a photo journalist who was at the location to take photographs of Daniel Moder and his family as they returned from the funeral services for Mr. Moder's mother. Mr. Griffin stated that Daniel Moder is the boyfriend of actress Julia Roberts.

Mr. Griffin stated he took several photos of the Moder family which angered Mr. Moder. Other photographers were present at that time, however they left, leaving Griffin alone in his car. At approximately 11:15 a.m., Mr. Griffin saw a rock land near his car which came from the direction of Mr. Moder’s backyard. Griffin did not see who threw the rock but then saw Mr. Moder throw a half brick at him a minute later. The brick missed Griffin, but struck the side of his car. Mr. Moder then threw a second half brick at him which landed in the street near his car.

Mr. Moder then got into his car and drove away from the residence. Mr. Griffin called the police to report the incident, but Mr. Moder was no longer present when they arrived at the location.

The investigation is being conducted by detectives from the West Valley Operations Support Division. For more information, please contact Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586. Los Angeles Police Department personnel will not be conducting on-camera interviews regarding this incident.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Guillermo Campos, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.