Santa Monica News
Sexual Assault Suspect Wanted
By Michael Mintos
Oct 11, 2012 - 12:41:45 PM

SANTA MONICA—The Santa Monica Police Department has put out a press release in hopes to get the public’s help in identifying and capturing a suspect accused of sexual assault.

At approximately 4:50 a.m. on Wednesday, October 10, a female victim reported to the police that she was jogging on the beach, and just as she passed Lifeguard Tower 8, the suspect pursued her at full speed. The victim tried her best to evade her attacker, but was caught and dragged to the sand by the suspect, where he proceeded to physically and sexually assault her.

The victim described the suspect as a White male, approximately 30 years old, about 5’6” with a thin muscular build, short dark brown hair, a full beard and wearing only blue jean shorts. The victim also stated that the suspect had no scars or tattoos of any kind. In an interview with Canyon News, Sergeant Richard Lewis of the Santa Monica Police Department stated that the suspect may be homeless but, “that is one of many avenues being investigated. He certainly was not a fellow jogger.”

The victim fought back while pinned in the sand and was able to free herself, running toward the Pacific Coast Highway to safety. Sergeant Lewis said, “the victim was in a state of shock and panic when she got to the highway. She probably ran further than she needed to but her injuries were significant and she wanted to be a safe distance away before calling 911.” On the subject of any further statements the victim made to the police, Sergeant Lewis said he would not discuss that for fear it may impede the investigation.

Sergeant Lewis went on to add that no one else in the area has come forward claiming they were assaulted, but they have received tips from citizens since the press release. He said, “The Santa Monica Police Department appreciates the help from the public and the press in advancing this case.”

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information can contact Detective Phillip DeRyck at (310) 458-8944, Sergeant Darrick Jacob at (310) 458-8460 or the Santa Monica Police Department, which is open 24 hours at (310) 458-8495. If someone with information wishes to remain anonymous they can contact WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME (1-800-78-27463) or online at www.wetip.com. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting www.lacrimestoppers.org. Any information submitted that leads to an arrest, the tipster is eligible to receive up to $1,000.00 as a reward.