Suspect Allegedly Committed Series of Hate Crimes Following Sexual Assault
The Los Angeles Police Department’s Rampart Division is asking for the public’s help in identifying additional victims and suspects in a hate crime and assault case involving a transgender woman in the Westlake area.
According to police, the initial attack occurred on April 8 when a 61-year-old woman was working inside her store. Authorities said a man entered the store and began flirting with her. After she rejected his advances, he left, only to return a short time later and push her to the ground. Police said the suspect sexually assaulted the woman before realizing she was transgender. He then pulled away and allegedly threatened to kill her.
In the days that followed, police said the suspect returned to the location multiple times, sometimes accompanied by others, and continued to target the victim with acts of violence motivated by hate.
During one incident, the suspect reportedly struck the woman with a skateboard. On another occasion, he allegedly pepper-sprayed her, and in a final attack, authorities say he threw an unknown liquid at her while another suspect attempted to stun her with a Taser.
Detectives have released images of the suspects and are asking anyone who recognizes them, or who may have been victimized by the same individuals, to come forward.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Rampart Division Robbery Detectives at (213) 484-3495. During evenings and weekends, tips can be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can call L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or submit information online at www.lacrimestoppers.org. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the “P3 Tips” mobile app.
