Long Beach Predator Sexually Assaults Mentally Impaired Woman: Police Need Your Help

Police in Long Beach, California, are searching for the man who kidnapped and sexually assaulted a 53-year-old mentally impaired woman, and have now released surveillance video in hopes that the public can help them catch this predator.

According to KABC News, the victim had been approached by a man in a sedan who asked her to get into his car. When she refused, he then parked his car and grabbed her by the hand, forcing her into the back seat of his car where he sexually assaulted her. After 45 minutes he dropped her off nearby. She promptly contacted the Long Beach authorities, who are asking for the help of anyone who might recognize the man or his car.

He is described as approximately 30 years old, either black or Hispanic, 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 11, 180 to 200 pounds, of medium complexion with short black hair.

He was wearing a light colored hooded sweatshirt and dark pants and shoes when last seen.

Long Beach police describe the vehicle as possibly a mid to late 1990’s Nissan Maxima, dark-colored four-door sedan.

Authorities also believe that the suspect knew the area, and may possibly still be in or around Long Beach. The abduction occurred at a parking lot of a Greyhound Bus Station near 15th Street and Long Beach Boulevard in the wee hours of the morning of Jan. 14, according to the Long Beach Police Department. The victim was dropped off near 16th Street and Martin Luther King Boulevard.

The mentally handicapped woman was apparently targeted for the assault, but it is unclear whether her condition was a factor in her being targeted. Sadly, it has long been common for impaired and handicapped people to become victims of violence than it is for members of the general public. “However, she was clear and concise about her assault, and she was consistent with what occurred on the video,” according to the Long Beach investigator in her case and NBC San Diego.

She is reported to have recovered physically, but not surprisingly, is suffering emotional trauma and is afraid to go out. There are a number of resources available for women in her situation, such as Safe Horizon.org and RAINN, Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network.

Long Beach police were in the news last fall for allegedly beating a man suspected of being mentally ill. Witnesses also stated that the suspect had been drinking and using crystal meth.

If you recognize the man or his vehicle, or have any information related to this case, you are urged to contact Long Beach Police Sex Crimes Detective Jennifer Kearns at (562) 570-7368. Anonymous tips may be submitted by calling (800) 222-TIPS, texting TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or visiting www.lacrimestoppers.org.

Be on the lookout for this predator if you are in the Long Beach area, and report him if you see him.