A woman was raped in the early morning of July 30 in the neighborhoods south of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Police have released a sketch of the suspect with the hope of learning his identity.

A police sketch of the suspect has been released, and authorities are asking the public for help in identifying the perpetrator. (photo courtesy of the LAPD)

The incident is being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division, Special Assault Section. Det. Blanca Lopez said no information is being provided about the victim, which is standard procedure in sexual assault cases, but said the victim was a resident of the Burton Way area. Lopez would also not divulge the exact location where the crime took place, but said it occurred around 3:30 a.m. within a one-block area between 3rd Street and Burton Way, and South Hamel Road and South Willaman Drive. Lopez said the victim was “just out for a walk” when the suspect approached and pulled out a handgun. He allegedly demanded valuables, and then forced the victim into a secluded area where the victim was sexually assaulted. The suspect then fled on foot, and no vehicle was witnessed.

“We don’t believe it to be a serial case. It seems like it was a crime of opportunity because there haven’t been any other similar crimes in the area,” Lopez said. “It was reported immediately after, and we felt that it was extremely important to get the composite sketch out there to let people know that he might be in the area.”

Lopez said the suspect stole jewelry and cash from the victim, but did not elaborate. The detective added that the suspect also physically struck the victim, resulting in some minor injuries. The victim received medical treatment but was not hospitalized. Investigators are in the process of interviewing residents in the area and searching for witnesses.

“This is not a high-crime area, so it is something that is unusual,” Lopez said. “But sexual assault is probably one of the most violent crimes that can be committed against an individual, so we want to make sure people know about it.”

Cary Brazeman, the founder of the Beverly West Residents Association, which is located in the neighborhood, said he was shocked to learn about the rape.

“This is a stark reminder that this neighborhood is not immune to violent crime,” Brazeman said. “We will be communicating about this with other residents through our newsletter and meetings.  It is definitely something that has caused concern.”

Lopez added that people should take precautions when walking at night, especially women. She said individuals should not walk alone, and should stay in lighted areas. Lopez said, however, that all of the precautions may not have prevented the recent attack.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Detectives Lopez or Vargas at (213)486-6910. During weekends and off-hours, call the LAPD’s 24-hour, toll-free hotline at (877)LAPD247.