Six Male Juveniles Arrested for Sexual Assault – Update

Van Nuys: On December 1, 2000, at approximately 8:30 p.m., Van Nuys officers responded to a local hospital in Woodland Hills, regarding a sexual assault investigation. A sixteen-year-old female had been admitted earlier in the evening unconscious, suffering from severe alcohol intoxication. Preliminary medical examination revealed that she had also been the victim of a sexual assault.

Sexual Assault detectives assigned to Van Nuys Operations Support Division determined that the victim was present at a "Ditch Party" in Van Nuys, attended by fifteen students who were truant from classes. The victim ingested a large quantity of an alcoholic beverage and passed out. She was then sexually assaulted by several male members of the party. Most of the juveniles involved are local taggers. The party occurred at the residence of one of the members, while his parents were at work.

The investigating detectives have identified most of the students present at the party and have arrested six male juveniles, between the ages of sixteen and seventeen years old. Although the investigation is continuing, it is anticipated that several of the juveniles will be charged in this case.

This information was provided by Detective Craig Rhudy, Major Assault Crimes Coordinator, Van Nuys Operations Support Division, 188 756-8371.

This press release was produced by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section 213 485-3586.

PRESS RELEASE UPDATE

Detectives conducting the follow-up investigation identified and arrested six male juvenile residents of Van Nuys and one adult, Nathaniel Sanchez, an 18 year-old resident of Van Nuys. Charges have been filed against three of the six juveniles arrested and against Nathaniel Sanchez. A fitness hearing is scheduled for January 19, 2001, to determine if two of the three charged juveniles will be tried as adults. In addition, a preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 4, 2001 for Nathaniel Sanchez.

This press release was produced by Public Information Officer Guillermo Campos, Media Relations Section 213-485-3586.

For Release 5:00 pm PST
December 23, 2000