Crime & Safety

Santa Monica Police Search For Man Who Sexually Assaulted Woman: SMPD

The woman was sexually assaulted while she was waiting for a ride on the street earlier this month, police said.

The incident occurred March 1 at 8:15 p.m. near Ocean Park Boulevard and 17th Street.
The incident occurred March 1 at 8:15 p.m. near Ocean Park Boulevard and 17th Street. (Nicole Charky / Patch)

SANTA MONICA, CA — Police are searching for a man suspected of sexually assaulting a woman while she was waiting for a ride on a Santa Monica street earlier this month, police said Friday.

The incident occurred March 1 at 8:15 p.m. near Ocean Park Boulevard and 17th Street, when a man approached a woman as he was pulling down his pants and making "lewd statements," the Santa Monica Police Department said.

When the woman turned to leave the area, the man grabbed her from behind and began touching her over her clothing. The woman was able to free herself from the man's grasp after a struggle and fled, police said.

Find out what's happening in Santa Monicawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The man was captured on a surveillance camera leaving the area, police said.

Surveillance camera stills show the man suspected of committing a sexual assault in Santa Monica, police said. (Santa Monica Police Department)

Anyone with information about the incident or the suspect is asked to contact Detective Tavera at [email protected], Detective Sgt. Gradle at [email protected] or the watch commander at 310-458-8427.

Find out what's happening in Santa Monicawith free, real-time updates from Patch.


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