Glendale police seek homeless man who allegedly made sexual statements, followed minor
Police are seeking the public’s help in finding a 33-year-old homeless man who reportedly followed a 17-year-old girl and tried to block her path while making sexual statements.
An arrest warrant was issued Friday for Adam Cartwright, who initially was arrested Aug. 30 after the girl told officers she feared he was going to kidnap and rape her, according to Glendale Police Sgt. Tom Lorenz. Cartwright, who was released from custody after that arrest, will face child annoyance charges, he added.
Police are concerned there might be additional victims who have had similar confrontations with Cartwright but haven’t reported them to authorities, he added.
The girl was walking home from the Panda Inn restaurant in the 100 block of East Wilson Avenue at about 4:20 p.m. on Aug. 28 when Cartwright reportedly tapped her shoulder, made a comment about her appearance, and blocked her path, police said.
She avoided eye contact with him and continued walking, but Cartwright allegedly followed her and told her that he wanted to take her somewhere and engage in sexual activities.
The girl pulled out her cellphone and called her father but Cartwright continued to follow her, making sexual statements and trying to block her path, police said.
The girl quickly ducked into the Glendale Beauty Store in the 700 block of East California Avenue, where she advised a worker she was being followed, and sought refuge.
Minutes later her father arrived, but Cartwright had left the area.
Days later, a police officer spotted Cartwright sitting on a bus bench on Colorado Street east of Brand Boulevard and recognized him as the suspect being sought in the incident.
He was taken into custody after the girl positively identified him.
Cartwright was released from custody as detectives continue to investigate the incident.
In 2011, Cartwright was one of at least 10 chronically homeless individuals who were selected to receive subsidized housing. The housing program was a joint effort between the city and Ascencia, the largest homeless services provider in the area.
He was required to meet with his case manager, attend a substance abuse and mental illness program, save money and be a good tenant.
However, Lorenz said Cartwright no longer is housed through the program and is homeless.
Anyone who sees Cartwright can call (818) 548-4911. To remain anonymous, call the Glendale Crime Stoppers at (818) 507-7867.
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