El Monte Gang Member Suspected in Rape

An arrest warrant was issued today for an 18-year-old gang member identified in the Saturday rape of a college student working at a convenience store.

Joseph Leo Amaya, a documented member of the El Monte Flores gang who has EMF tattooed on his right forearm, is suspected of raping the young woman in back of the Peck Mini Mart at 4164 N. Peck Road, El Monte police Detective David Avalos said.

The warrant set bail at $5 million.

Police also asked for the public's help in finding Amaya.

Amaya, who may also have a tattoo on his neck, was described as about 5 feet 5 inches and 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

"Additionally, the El Monte Police Department will aggressively pursue and seek criminal charges against anyone who is found to harbor or aid Jospeh Leo Amaya," police said.

Anyone with more information as to Amaya's whereabouts was asked to call Avalos at (626) 258-8842.

-- City News Service