LAGUNA BEACH : Female Shopkeepers Warned of Attacks
Police are warning female shopkeepers about a would-be rapist who has attacked three women over the past three months as they were closing their stores.
The man entered the stores, where the women were working alone, inquired about clothing and then forced the women into a secluded area and attempted to rape them, Sgt. Raymond Lardie said. In each case, the women fought off the attacker.
The man is also suspected of stealing clothing from at least five other shops.
The crimes occurred in stores south of Main Beach, and all occurred just before 6 p.m., Lardie said. One of the attempted rapes took place in a downtown store. The last attack was about 10 days ago, he said, but he would not give a specific date.
The intruder is described as being 5 feet, 7 inches tall, weighing about 130 pounds and in his early 20s. He is youthful in appearance and clean-shaven with black, collar-length hair. He may have a scar under his left eye, Lardie said.
Police recommend that female shopkeepers not attempt to close their stores alone until the suspect is apprehended.
Anyone with information about the crimes is asked to call Detective Ron Sapp at (714) 497-0370.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
