Sketch of Suspect in Attacks Released

A composite sketch of a man suspected of trying to rape two women at West Los Angeles College was released Friday by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

The first attack occurred at 9 a.m. Thursday. A man confronted a woman as she tried to exit a bathroom stall in a physical education building, according to Sheriff’s Deputy Max Doke.

The man forced the woman to the ground and tried to cover her mouth to keep her from screaming as he attempted to rape her.

“He became nervous when he heard a noise outside and took off,” Doke said.

About an hour and 15 minutes later, deputies received word of a second attack at another restroom across campus. That attack ended when another woman entered the restroom, causing the man to flee.

“Both women were attempting to fight him off,” Doke said. “They both complained of neck and back pain.”

Doke said patrols have been increased in and around the campus, located on the western slope of the Baldwin Hills.

Deputies advised women to use public restrooms in busy areas and to go in pairs when possible.

“If you’re with a male friend, have him wait outside,” Sheriff’s Sgt. Paul Patterson said.

The suspect in Thursday’s attacks was described as African American, 6 feet tall, 165 pounds, with short black hair. He was wearing a black baseball hat and a black hooded sweatshirt.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Department’s Marina del Rey station at (310) 577-5047 or (310) 823-7762.