News Release Tuesday, January 6, 2015

Vicious Robberies at Mid-town Apartment Buildings Caught on Video NR15004SF

Los Angeles:

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is asking for the public's help to identify a suspect whose images were caught on surveillance video.On November 9, 2014, around 4:25 a.m., a male Hispanic robbed a female Korean in an apartment elevator located in the 300 block of Alexandria Avenue. The suspect followed the lone female inside the elevator, punched her then took her purse.On November 23, 2014, around 12:30 a.m., a male Hispanic robbed a female Korean in an apartment elevator located in the 500 block of Hobart Boulevard. The suspect used the same method of operation; he followed the lone female inside the elevator, punched her then took her purse.On December 23, 2014, around 2:00 a.m., a male Hispanic robbed a female Korean in an apartment elevator located in the 300 block of Alexandria Avenue. The suspect followed the lone female inside the elevator, sexually battered her, punched her numerous times then took her purse.On December 30, 2014, around 10:50 p.m., a male Hispanic robbed a female Korean in an apartment elevator located in the 400 block of Westmoreland Avenue. The suspect followed the lone female inside the elevator, pressed a sharp object on her neck and attempted to take her purse. When the victim held onto to her handbag, the suspect slammed the victim to the ground, punched and kicked her multiple times then took her purse.It is believed that the same suspect is wanted for committing the vicious robberies. The suspect is described as a 20-30 year-old male Hispanic. He stands approximately 5'06" to 5'08" tall and weighs approximately 130-170 pounds. In addition, he is often seen wearing sweatshirts and shorts.Anyone with information about the robberies or who recognizes the suspect is urged to call LAPD Olympic Division Robbery Detectives at (213) 382-9460. During non-business hours or on the weekends, calls should be directed to1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters "LAPD." Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.