Detectives Seek Suspect in String of Sexual Battery Cases

Detectives are searching for a man they believe molested at least eight women in Northridge over the last few months.

The series of sexual batteries began at the end of last year and the most recent occurred in late March, said Los Angeles Police Det. Michael Lewin. The molester targets Latinas, he said.

“He engages them in conversation and distracts them,” Lewin said. “In a number of cases . . . he tells them they have something on their clothing. They are caught off guard and he assaults them.”

LAPD Officer Carol Mitchell described sexual battery in general terms, as touching or fondling.

Seven of the women were Latina and one victim is of another race, though Lewin declined to describe her further. Seven of the incidents occurred on Saticoy Street between Reseda Boulevard and De Soto Avenue, and one occurred on Reseda Boulevard near Roscoe Boulevard, he said. All occurred near businesses between 7 and 10 a.m.; the victims were on foot and alone, he said.

The man was described as Latino, 5 feet, 5 inches to 5 feet, 8 inches tall with a medium build and possibly short dark hair. He is believed to be 25 to 30 years old and wears gang-style attire. He speaks Spanish and English.