Man Robs, Sexually Assaults Woman at Knifepoint

Los Angeles: Police have released surveillance footage of a knife wielding man who robbed a woman behind a mid-Wilshire bank last month. Anyone recognizing the suspect is asked to contact Wilshire Area Detectives.

On Saturday, May 13, 2006, shortly before 1:30 a.m., the suspect ran up to a lone female standing next to her parked car, behind the Bank of America, at 5304 Wilshire Boulevard. The suspect, wearing latex gloves, held a knife to the woman’s throat and demanded all of her money. On realizing that the victim had no cash, he directed her to the bank’s ATM. Holding the knife to her back, the suspect forced her to withdraw money.

With the victim still at knifepoint, the man took the money and directed her back to the car. He fondled her and attempted to force her into the vehicle. The woman screamed and fought back. During the struggle, the suspect cut the victim’s arm, then ran away north on Wilshire Boulevard.

The suspect is a male Hispanic, 30-35 years old, medium build, 5’8” tall, and clean shaven. He is shown wearing a baseball cap and red hooded sweatshirt.

The public’s help is needed in locating this dangerous criminal. Anyone with information is asked to call Wilshire Robbery Detective Soares or Martinez, at 213-922-8205, during normal business hours. Callers wishing to not be identified may remain anonymous. After hours and on weekends, phone the 24-hour toll free Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAW-FULL (877-529-3855).

Video footage of the robbery is available by clicking here.