LAPD Devoting Resources to Transgender Hate Crime Case

Introduction to the Case

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is dedicating significant resources to investigating a series of hate crimes against a transgender store owner in the Westlake District. Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell emphasized the department’s commitment to apprehending the perpetrators and supporting the victim.

Details of the Crimes

The victim, a 61-year-old transgender woman, has been subjected to multiple assaults over the course of a month, with the first incident occurring on April 8. The suspect in the initial attack flirted with the victim, then punched her to the ground after she rejected his advances. Upon discovering the victim was a transgender woman, the suspect sexually assaulted her and threatened to kill her.

The same suspect, along with additional individuals, returned to the victim’s store on multiple occasions, committing further hate crimes. These incidents included physical assaults, the use of a skateboard as a weapon, deployment of pepper spray, and an attempt to stun the victim with a Taser. The suspects also stole $30,000 from the victim and, on two occasions, one of the suspects pointed a gun at her, though it did not fire.

Investigation and Arrests

One suspect, identified as Samuel Parros, 30, was arrested on May 27 and booked on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, not a firearm, with great bodily injury. He was being held in lieu of $10,000 cash bail. Parros was listed as "Suspect 2" in the surveillance images released by the LAPD. The department is seeking the public’s help in locating two young males believed to be involved in the assaults.

Surveillance Images and Public Appeal

The LAPD released surveillance images of the suspects to encourage additional victims to come forward and to solicit information from the public that could lead to the arrest of the remaining suspects. The images can be viewed online, and anyone with information is urged to contact detectives.

Request for Public Assistance

Detectives from the LAPD’s Rampart Division Robbery Section believe there may be other victims and are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying them. Individuals with information regarding the crimes can contact detectives directly or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.

Conclusion

The LAPD’s dedication to solving this case and supporting the victim reflects the department’s commitment to addressing hate crimes and ensuring the safety and dignity of all members of the community, including transgender individuals. The investigation is ongoing, and the public’s help is crucial in bringing all the perpetrators to justice.

FAQs

• Q: What is the nature of the crimes committed against the transgender store owner?
  • A: The victim has been subjected to a series of hate crimes, including physical assaults, sexual assault, theft, and threats with a deadly weapon.
• Q: How many suspects are involved, and what is their status?
  • A: There are multiple suspects, with one, Samuel Parros, currently in custody. The LAPD is seeking the public’s help in locating additional suspects.
• Q: How can the public assist in the investigation?
  • A: The public can provide information by contacting detectives directly or through anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers. Viewing and sharing the surveillance images can also help identify additional victims and suspects.
• Q: What resources are available for victims of hate crimes?
  • A: Victims of hate crimes can reach out to the LAPD, local LGBTQ+ support organizations, and national hotlines for support and resources.