Police release sketch of man accused of attempted sexual assault
Sketch of man in connection with Jan. 7 attempted sexual assault of UCLA student.
By Daily Bruin
Jan. 9, 2013 2:26 a.m.
[UPDATED on Jan. 16: University police released a sketch of a man today in connection with last week’s attempted sexual assault of a UCLA student.
The assault occurred on Jan. 7 at about 1 a.m. near the Engineering IV building in south campus.]
The attempted assault occurred about an hour after a different UCLA student was robbed at gunpoint just off campus on the 300 block of Veteran Avenue.
The student who reported the attempted assault told police she was walking east on a walkway between Parking Structure 9 and Engineering IV between 1:15 and 1:30 a.m. when a man ran up to her from behind and hugged her, according to a report from university police released Monday.
The man told the student he intended to sexually assault her and tried to pull her to the ground, but she was able to break free and get away. The man then fled in an unknown direction, the report stated.
It is unusual for two violent crimes to occur within hours of each other within the vicinity of UCLA, said Nancy Greenstein, a spokeswoman for UCPD.
Criminals might target areas, like college campuses, that have a high population of young people who tend to have valuable electronics such as laptops and smart phones, and might not stay as vigilant when walking alone at night, Greenstein said.
She added that UCPD hopes to improve students’ safety practices by participating in a few events, including UCLA’s Campus Safety Week, an event hosted by the Undergraduate Students Association Council to promote safety on campus.
“I believe most crime on the campus can be prevented,” Greenstein said. “Following tips and being cautious for people internalizing the behavior.”
Police suggest students walk with friends whenever possible and use the CSO escort service to remain safe.
The man seen in connection with the attempted assault was described in the report as light skinned, about 30 years old, 5 feet 11 inches tall and 160 pounds. He had a thin build, black short hair, and was wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans at the time of the incident.
Anyone with information about the incident can call UCPD at 310-825-1491 or leave an anonymous tip at 310-794-5824.
Compiled by Erin Donnelly, Bruin senior staff.
