Crime & Safety

Jogger Escapes Rapist In San Fernando Valley

Police are warning residents to be on the lookout for a sexual predator who attempted to rape a woman in Van Nuys Thursday.

VAN NUYS, CA — A jogger in the San Fernando Valley managed to escape the clutches of a attempted rapist Thursday, and now police are warning residents to be onguard.

The attack happened at about 6 a.m. in the Van Nuys area Thursday. The woman was jogging along Fulton Avenue near Hatteras Street when a man grabbed her from behind, the Los Angeles Police Department reported.

"The suspect approached the victim from behind and sexually battered her," a police statement said. "The victim struggled with the suspect to break free from his control. The suspect then attempted to pull her to the ground. The victim kicked and elbowed the suspect."

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Her attacker retreated, and she was able to escape, according to police. Her attacker ran off. He was described as Hispanic, about 25-30 years of age, about 5 feet 5 inches tall, with a thin build and a goatee. He was wearing a blue hoodie and black workout pants.

Los Angeles police Friday circulated a composite drawing of a man being in hopes that someone will recognize him.

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Anyone with information about the crime was urged to call Detective Lisa Householder at (818) 374-0010, or (877) LAPD-247.

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