Sexual Assault Suspect Arrested NR09474gb

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) detectives announce the arrest of a sexual assault suspect.

On September 28, 2009, at around 1:05 a.m., the female victim was walking in the area of Alta Vista Place and Melrose Avenue.  The suspect walked alongside the victim and engaged her in a conversation. He then pulled the victim into an alley and attempted to sexually assault her.  Nearby residents heard the victim’s cries for help.  911 operators received numerous calls.  As responding units were arriving with lights and sirens, the suspect ran from the area and escaped.

Detectives from Operations-West Bureau Sexual Assault Detail began a case with very limited leads.  Detectives developed their case and eventually identified registered sex offender Christopher Webb, 22 years old, as the suspect.

On September 29, 2009 at 10:30 a.m., Detectives arrested Webb and booked him at the Wilshire Area Jail for attempted rape.  Webb is being held on $225,000 bail.

Detectives believe Webb may be responsible for additional assaults on other teenage victims.  Webb has distinctive script lettering tattoos on the top of each hand, "Honey" on his right hand and “Combs” on his left hand.

Anyone with information about this crime or similar assaults by Webb is asked to call Operations-West Bureau Sexual Assault Detail at 213-473-0447.  During off-hours, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247).  Callers may also text "Crimes" with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on Web tips.  When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with "LAPD."  Tipsters may remain anonymous.