$25,000 reward offered in Hollywood transgender attack

The Los Angeles Police Department said Tuesday it is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the men they believe responsible for an assault that left a transgender woman hospitalized for a week.

The attack against a woman whom the police identified as Vivian took place about 2:15 a.m. May 31 as she was walking on Hollywood Boulevard near Vine Street.

Video released Tuesday by the LAPD shows four men involved in the incident, including a man described as the “primary suspect,” who investigators said was responsible for the initial assault.

In the video, that man appears to strike the woman from behind with a punch or flying kick, knocking her to the concrete. She appears to lose consciousness.

Three three other men can then be seen joining the fray, kicking the victim repeatedly as she lies motionless on the ground.

She suffered broken bones and internal injuries and was hospitalized for seven days, police said.

The LAPD said it is likely the attack was witnessed by people walking or driving nearby. The LAPD Hollywood Area major assault crime detectives said they need the public’s assistance in identifying the attackers.

LAPD investigators have set up a special email account, hollywoodcrimetips@gmail.com, for anyone to contact them or provide information.

In addition, those with knowledge of the attack can contact LAPD’s Hollywood Area Detective Division at (213) 972-2967 or (877) LAPD-24-7 during non-business hours or weekends.

Anonymous tipsters can contact Crimestoppers at (800)-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 with a cellphone. Tipsters can also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.

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andrew.blankstein@latimes.com