Police Warn of Serial Rapist in West LA

West Los Angeles, CA -- Authorities today sought public help to find a man who sexually assaulted two women in their 20s in the West Los Angeles area, near Santa Monica, over the weekend and may have committed other similar crimes.

Early Saturday, a woman was walking home in the 1400 block of South Westgate Avenue when a man grabbed her from behind and dragged her across a street to a dark path.

"He threw her onto the ground and got on top of her," according to a Los Angeles Police Department statement. "The victim fought back, but the suspect struck her numerous times and sexually assaulted her before fleeing."

On Monday about 4:15 p.m., a man approached a woman as she was walking home about a half-mile away and on the same street as the first attack.

"He put his arm around her neck, pulled her down a driveway and forced her to the ground," police said. "He ... sexually assaulted the victim and fled on foot."

In both assaults, the man was described as black, about 25-30 years old, 160 pounds and 6 feet to 6 feet 2 inches tall, with black hair and facial hair. Surveillance images of the suspect were released at a news conference this afternoon, where police said witnesses heard the first victim's cries, but did not call 911.

"If you hear cries for help, call 911," Capt. Tina Nieto, commanding officer the LAPD's West Los Angeles Station, told reporters. "Let the police get there so we can do an investigation and hopefully catch this predator before he attacks another victim."

Both women were taken to a hospital, where they were treated and released. Detectives believe there may be additional victims or witnesses who may have information and are asking them to call (213) 473-0447, or (877) LAPD-247.Anonymous tips can be directed to Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 222-TIPS.

City News Service