Police Release Sketch of LB College Attack Suspect

Police late Friday released a composite drawing of a man they suspect tried to sexually assault a woman in a bathroom stall at Long Beach City College, and offered a list of safety reminders for those out alone at night.

The 18-year-old victim, who was on the Liberal Arts Campus in a restroom stall about 9 p.m. Thursday but was not identified as a student, managed to thwart the attacker, who fled. The teenager was treated and released for injuries she suffered during the incident.

The suspect who forced his way into her stall was described as a Black male approximately 18-25 year-old, 5 feet 9 inches tall with a thin build and wearing dark clothing. Police hope that someone may recognize him from the police sketch and call detectives.

The victim, an 18-year-old female, was inside the stall of a women's restroom at the Liberal Arts Campus of Long Beach City College when the suspect forced his way into her stall, and attempted to sexually assault her before fleeing.  The victim was treated and released from a local hospital for injuries sustained in the incident.

Patrols on and around campus have been increased, and a Safety Advisory outlining the incident and offering safety tips to students and faculty is being disseminated on both the Liberal Arts campus as well as the Pacific Coast campus.

"Police believe this occurrence to be an isolated incident, as the last reported sexual assault similar to this that took place on campus was back in September of 2006," a department news release stated.  In that incident, the suspect was described as a male Hispanic, approximately 30-years-old with a tan complexion, green eyes and a mustache.

Students, faculty and all members of the community are encouraged to practice the following safety tips at all times:

- Keep your cell phone in an easily accessible location

- Report suspicious activity immediately by calling 9-1-1

- To receive an escort to their vehicle, students and faculty can contact Campus Police at (562) 435-6711

- Always be alert to your surroundings and the people around you

- Be aware of locations and situations which could make you vulnerable (dark parking lots, dim walkways and restrooms)

- Whenever possible, travel with a friend - there is safety in numbers

- Stay in well-lighted areas whenever possible

- Avoid doorways, bushes, and alleys where someone could hide

- Walk confidently and at a steady pace, and make eye contact with people

- Keep your keys in your hand when walking to your vehicle 

- Park in well-lighted areas whenever possible

- Check the inside of your car before entering

- Keep windows and doors locked

- If followed, do not drive home - drive to a well-lighted open business and call police to your location

- Sign up for Nixle at www.nixle.com to receive L.B.P.D. alerts via text or web    

Anyone who may know the identity or whereabouts of  the suspect is urged to contact Long Beach Police Sex Crimes Detective Mike Solomita at (562) 570-7368.  For an immediate police response, please dial 9-1-1.