Second Similar Assault This Year in Canyon Country

Detectives from the Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Station are seeking the public’s assistance as they investigate two sexual assault incidents that occurred in the Canyon Country area.  The latest incident occurred in the early morning hours of March 29, 2007, in the 19000 block of 4 Oaks Street. 

The victim, a female in her 40’s, who was asleep in her bed, was awakened by sound.  She then saw the suspect, a male Hispanic in his 30’s, 5’08”-5’10”, 160 to 180 lbs., medium build, possible mustache, wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt, walk toward her bed.  The suspect climbed onto the bed, put a knife against the victim’s neck and ordered her to be quiet.  She noticed the suspect spoke with a “Hispanic” accent.  The suspect sexually assaulted the victim and then walked out of the bedroom and left the location.  The entire incident lasted approximately 15 minutes.

Responding deputies searched the area and inspected the victim’s home.  They discovered an open kitchen window with the screen removed.  It is believed the suspect used the window, which was left partially open when the victim went to bed, to enter the residence.

This is the second similar sexual assault to occur this year in the Santa Clarita Valley area.  The first of which took place on Stillmore Street, Canyon Country, at 6:50 a.m. on Saturday January 6th.  The twenty year old victim in that crime was also sexually assaulted in her home by a male Hispanic, 25 years old, wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt.  No weapon was used or seen during that incident.  The suspect’s mode of entry was not determined, although an open window was a possibility.

The investigations into both crimes are active and on-going.  Station officials are encouraging all residents of the Santa Clarita Valley to pay close attention to their surroundings, secure their houses when they go to bed at night and report any suspicious activity, or persons, to the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station.  Deputies have also increased patrols in the area.

In response to the two sexual assaults, Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich is offering a $10,000 reward motion for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect(s) responsible.

Anyone with any information regarding these cases should immediately contact the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station, or Detective Gill at (661)255-1121.