Sketches Released of Wanted Sexual Predator NR15086pv

North Hills: Detectives have
released two composite sketches, from two separate victims, of a
man who attacked the women in the 14600 block of Nordoff Street.
The attacks occurred a week apart.

“There are both similarities and differences between each sketch,
but we think they represent the same man,” said Lt. Paul Vernon,
commanding officer of the Mission Detective Division. “Thankfully,
both women were able to fight off the man and get away. Our intent
is to 1) warn the public and 2) identify this man.”

The women described him as Hispanic, 5’6″ to 5’7″, 160 to 180, with
dark hair that was either spiked with gel, or wavy. They estimated
him to be in his mid 30s.

The first attack occurred just after midnight on Sunday, March 8,
when the woman was leaving an apartment complex at 14717 Nordoff
Street. The suspect grabbed her from behind when she bent down to
pick up something. The suspect wrestled her to the ground, trying
to disrobe her, but the woman fought back and the attacker ran
off.

The second attack occurred one week later, Saturday, March 14,
around 11:30 P.M. Again, the attacker threw the woman down as she
left an apartment complex at 14689 Nordoff Street. She screamed as
he sat on top of her, which was enough to scare him away.

“We suspect this man lives in the neighborhood, perhaps in one
of the several apartment complexes along Nordoff Street,” warned
Lt. Vernon. “Women can protect themselves better by walking in
pairs for now, and until we identify this man.”

“Stranger attacks like this are rare,” Lt. Vernon added. “And all
women can take note from these two victims: do not ever allow
yourself to be taken away; fighting back and drawing attention to
your plight is usually the best defense, but it’s a personal
choice. Rehearsing in your mind such an occurrence and your
response will make you more apt to react quickly.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Det. Nicole Kittle,
Mission Sex Unit, at (818) 838-9975. During non-business hours or
on the weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7
(877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call
Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also
contact Crime Stoppers 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.