Composite Released in Attempt Kidnapping of 11-year-old NR10595pv

Los Angeles.  LAPD detectives released a composite sketch of a man who tried to kidnap an 11-year-old boy off the street in the Chinatown Area of Los Angeles on December 14, 2010.

“Our victim is an excellent witness,” said Det. Amy Sundquist, who is assigned to the Robbery Section at Central Detectives.  “The suspect is Black with a small growth of beard under his chin, and was wearing a do-rag on his head.”  

The young Hispanic boy, who attends Nightingale Junior High School, was walking home at about 1 p.m., on Yale Street, near Alpine Street, when the suspect grabbed the boy’s arm.  

The boy pulled away from the man’s grip, but the suspect grabbed the boy by the shirt.  The boy fought back some more and the suspect ran away.  The boy was not injured.

“The young man did the right thing to fight back,” Det. Sundquist explained.  “We encourage any victim to fight off a kidnapper and draw attention to one’s self.”

Since the incident, detectives have spoken to the boy’s parents and the school principal so other children can be warned.  The attempted kidnapping occurred near a popular youth sports and recreation park on Yale Street.  Detectives have already detained one man during the course of the investigation, but have since eliminated him as the suspect.  

“Our victim said the suspect appeared to be dirty, so he might be living in the area on the street,” Det. Sundquist added.  “We’re hoping someone will recognize this man from the area and call us.”

The suspect is 5 feet, 6 inches tall, about 135 pounds, and in his late twenties to early thirties.  The man was wearing baggy jean shorts that reached to his ankles.

Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Detective Amy Sundquist, Central Robbery Unit, at 213-972-1244.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

Video of the crime is available for viewing at the Central Police Station.  Det. Sundquist is available for interviews at (213) 972-1244, or 972-1203.