Sexual Assault Suspect (Teardrop Attacker) Being Sought

September 3, 2002

"Sexual Assault Suspect (Teardrop Attacker) Being Sought"
 
WHAT:
Press Conference
WHEN:
September 4, 2002
2:00 p.m.
WHERE:
77th Street Community Police Station
7600 South Broadway, Los Angeles
Los Angeles: On August 30, 2002, at approximately 5:45 a.m., a 15 year-old female was walking to school near 74th Street and San Pedro Street in 77th Area. The victim was approached by a male, who asked for directions. The victim stopped to aid the male at which time he produced a handgun. The suspect directed the victim to the rear of a yard where he had the victim disrobe. The suspect apparently panicked and fled the location on foot.
Between February 1999 and October 2001 there have been six similar incidents of attempted sexual assault. These incidents have occurred in 77th, Newton and Southeast Areas. It is believed that the same suspect is responsible for all of these incidents.
The suspect is described as a male Hispanic, brown eyes, brown hair, 5’5’’/5’8" tall, 140/160 pounds and 30-40 years of age. The suspect has worn a dark hooded sweatshirt, a green bandana or dark colored beanie to cover his head. The suspect has also been described as having one or two tattoo teardrops under his right or left eye.
A press conference is scheduled for Wednesday, September 4, 2002, at 2:00 p.m., at 77th Street Community Police Station. Anyone with information is requested to contact Detectives Long or Tomes, at Robbery-Homicide Division, Rape Special Section, at 213-763-5056. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.
This media advisory was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.