Man Accused in Violent West L.A. Rape Attempt Facing Life in State Prison
Charges and Allegations
A 33-year-old man is facing the possibility of life in prison for an alleged violent rape attempt of a 63-year-old woman, attacking a toddler, and residential burglary late last month, officials announced.
The Incident
The terrifying incident unfolded just before 12:30 p.m. on February 27 in the West Los Angeles neighborhood of Sawtelle.
The Allegations
In a news release, prosecutors with L.A. County District Attorney’s Office said Ishmail Bangura attacked a 3-year-old child inside one apartment before entering the apartment of a 63-year-old woman who he reportedly sexually assaulted. Bangura, who witnesses said was nude during the violent ordeal, was pulled off the woman by a group of construction workers working on a site in the 2400 block of Barry Avenue near the 10 Freeway who heard the victim’s screams for help.
The Rescue
“Part of you freezes and thinks, ‘Is this really happening right now?’ And then part of you just knows, ‘We gotta go help her,'” Rick Dreyfus, a general contractor who assisted in the rescue, told KTLA.
Charges and Penalty
Bangura was charged with assault to commit forcible rape during the commission of a burglary that inflicted great bodily injury to the victim and child abuse with enhancements that the alleged attacks involve “great violence” and “a high degree of cruelty.”
If convicted as charged, Bangura faces a maximum sentence of life in state prison plus 13 years and would be required to register as a sex offender for life, officials said.
Conclusion
Violence against children and older adults – some of the most vulnerable members of our community – is beyond reprehensible. The DA’s office is committed to holding accountable those who commit such heinous crimes and ensuring that they are held responsible for their actions.
FAQs
* What are the charges against Ishmail Bangura?
+ Assault to commit forcible rape during the commission of a burglary that inflicted great bodily injury to the victim and child abuse with enhancements that the alleged attacks involve “great violence” and “a high degree of cruelty”.
* What is the maximum sentence Bangura faces if convicted?
+ Life in state prison plus 13 years
* Is Bangura required to register as a sex offender if convicted?
+ Yes, for life
* What is the current status of Bangura’s case?
+ He is being held on $2 million bail and has pleaded not guilty
