Los Angeles: On May 6, 2004 at about 3:00 p.m., an attempt kidnapping of a 10 year-old girl occurred in front of Gratts Elementary School, located at 309 South Lucas Avenue. The victim was standing in front of the school when the suspect approached her. At first the suspect attempted to lure the victim to his pick-up. When this did not work, the suspect armed himself with a knife and grabbed the victim by the arm as he tried to force her into the vehicle. An unidentified witness intervened, causing the suspect to release his grip on the girl, who ran to safety. The suspect hurriedly left the area.

A composite drawing of the suspect is being release to facilitate his identification. The suspect is described as male, Hispanic, between late 20’s to early 40’s years of age, medium complexion. He is about 5 feet, 8 inches tall, weights 180 pounds. The suspect was wearing a red shirt, blue jeans (ripped at the knee) and had dark-rim glasses. He has a gold front tooth, a scar over his right eye, a pierced ear, and speaks broken English.

He was driving a red, late 80’s to early 90’s Toyota pick-up, possible extended cab, with some type of beads hanging from the rear view mirror. The truck had no license plates.

The investigation is being conducted by detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department, Rampart Division, and the Los Angeles School Police.

Anyone with information that may assist in this investigation is asked to call Rampart Major Assault Crimes Unit at 213-207-2031. On weekends or during off-hours, please call the 24-hour, toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, at 1-877-LAWFULLL (1-877-529-3855).

This news release was prepared by Public Information Officer Eduardo Funes, Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.