Santa Monica police have arrested a 39-year-old Long Beach man in connection with the attempted sexual assault of an 84-year-old woman.
The incident occurred near the intersection of 6th Street and Wilshire Boulevard on June 5, at approximately 9:30 p.m., according to a press release from the police department.
Officers responded to reports of a woman screaming and found the victim, a Santa Monica resident, who appeared to be “in distress.”
“The victim reported that she was approached and grabbed from behind by a male suspect who then dragged her into a nearby alley and attempted to sexually assault her,” police said.
Multiple witnesses corroborated the victim’s account and observed the suspect fleeing the scene. Police apprehended the suspect, identified as Pape Tall, near 5th Street and California Avenue.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed felony charges against Tall, including kidnapping with intent to commit rape, assault with intent to commit rape, and violation of probation. His court appearance is scheduled for July 9.
Those with information are encouraged to contact Detective Maricela Orta at (310) 458-2293 or Sergeant Chad Goodwin at (310) 458-8931.
