Police Warn Of Brazen Sexual Assault Suspect At Large

ENCINO, CA — Police are warning people to be on the lookout for a sexual predator, who recently attacked a hiker in broad daylight on a popular Mulholland Drive hiking trail.

Los Angeles Police Department investigators held a press conference Monday afternoon in an effort to raise awareness about the brazen predator, who remains at large. They are also asking for help identifying the suspect.

The attack occurred at about noon on Nov. 21 along a trail near the 17000 block of Mulholland Drive.

"The suspect approached the victim from behind, forced her to a secluded area, and sexually assaulted her," the LAPD said in a written release.

The suspect is described as a white or Hispanic man about 30 years old with a two-inch scar on his right forearm.

"The suspect did have a knife with him at the time that the crime was committed, though he didn't use the knife during the commission of the crime," LAPD Detective Joe Hampton said at a Monday morning news conference at the West Valley Station.

"We have not had any additional victims, but we are seeking anybody who has had any similar experiences — who may have been afraid to come forward — to please seek us out," Hampton said.

Police are urging women to use caution while hiking in the area until the suspect is apprehended.

"Whenever someone is up there in the Mulholland trail area, up on the ridge ... use caution — not hiking alone, having your cell phone, those kinds of things," LAPD Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton said at the news conference.

"As a reminder, hike in pairs and tell someone where you are going," police warned. "Carry a cell phone in case of an emergency and always be aware of your surroundings."

The area is a popular place among hikers. It's not uncommon to see solo hikers on the trail, especially during the late morning and afternoon.

Anyone with information on the attack was encouraged to contact Detective Joseph Hampton at 36817@lapd.online or 818-374-7717. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS.

City News Service and Patch staffer Paige Austin contributed to this report.