Prayer for Arrest of Rapist Scheduled

Hundreds of members of area churches will gather in Simi Valley on Saturday to pray for the arrest of the serial rapist that has eluded police for several years.

“This has been a concern of ours for years,” said Rick Fish, pastor of the Live Ride Christian Church, which caters to about 100 motorcycle enthusiasts. “It’s been something we’ve mentioned from our pulpits to pray for the arrest.”

The “Kneel Down and Pray Simi Valley” event will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. at the amphitheater in Rancho Simi Community Park, 1765 Royal Ave.

Fish expects several hundred people from 10 to 25 Christian churches.

Simi Valley investigators believe a serial rapist is responsible for 12 assaults in Simi Valley since 1996.

Police reported an attempted rape Thursday night, but detectives said they don’t believe it’s connected to the serial rapist case.

The Simi Valley Police Department is not formally involved with Saturday’s prayer session, but they’re grateful community church leaders and members are expressing their concern, Sgt. Bob Gardner said.

“It’s a good thing. We appreciate the community support,” Gardner said.

Some of the churches involved include Royal Avenue Baptist Church, Grace Brethren Church, Sonrise Christian Fellowship of Moorpark, New Beginnings Christian Fellowship Church of God and Triumphal Shout Ministries.