Korea Town Rapist Alert to the Public

 
Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating a series of ten sexual assault/robberies that occurred in and near the Korea Town area of Los Angeles. Two of these crimes occurred outside of the City of Los Angeles, one in Beverly Hills, and the other in Glendale. In both of those instances the victims were returning from the Korea Town area.
The crimes were committed between August 26, 2004 and May 27, 2005, during the day and night. The most recent crime occurred in the early morning hours of May 27, 2005, near Crenshaw Blvd and Wilshire Blvd. All victims have been Asian women, between the ages of 17 and 47 years old. The suspect follows victims into their apartments or parking structures, armed with a handgun. He demands money or property, then, in most instances, sexually assaults the victim.
The suspect, dubbed the Korea Town Rapist, is described as a male, Black, 5’10" to 6’02", 160-200 lbs., 20-30 years old. He has short or closely shaved hair, and a light to medium complexion. He has worn a hat or bandana, and in every crime he has possessed a handgun.
In the event of an attack victims should call 9-1-1 as soon as possible. Solving these series of crimes can depend on victims following these protocols: Do not wash, bath, rinse your mouth, or clean up the crime scene prior to officers’ arrival. Make a mental note of your assailant’s physical description, especially clothing, and relay that to the police when they arrive. (Victims may choose to be interviewed by a female police officer.) Medical attention will be provided immediately following the crime, and counseling will also be arranged.
To prevent an attack, women in the area should remain alert to their surroundings. They should use caution when driving alone, and especially when driving home or into parking structures. Keep apartment lobbies and building stairwells secured at all times. Do not grant access to strangers into secured buildings, lobbies, or elevators. Double check that surveillance equipment is in good working order. When arriving home alone, women should remain in their car until they are sure it is safe to exit. Women should travel with a companion. If you think you are being followed, or see a stranger loitering, leave the location, and go to the nearest police station or public place. In an emergency, call 9-1-1.
Anyone with information in this case is encouraged to call Robbery-Homicide Division at 213-485-2921. Any information provided will be kept confidential. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll-free number: 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855). Callers may remain anonymous.