Sexual Assault Suspect's DNA Matches New Crime In South OC

ALISO VIEJO, CA — DNA technology has helped Orange County Sheriff's Department investigators link the suspect from two separate kidnapping and assault incidents that occurred along the Aliso Creek trail in the city of Aliso Viejo. Officials are asking the community to help to identify the suspect.

In early April, deputies responded to Woodfield Park after a woman reported a man grabbed her from behind and forced her into the bushes off the hiking trail, just east of the baseball fields.
"The victim, a woman in her 30s, fought back and screamed for help," OCSD spokeswoman Carrie Braun said.

The suspect fled the area.

Little is known about the suspect, but that he is around mid-30s, with dark eyes and little-to-no hair, with a muscular build. He was last seen wearing a black shirt, black shorts, and tennis shoes.
In mid-January, another victim did not get away as quickly. A 22-year-old woman reported that while she was skateboarding at Woodfield Park, an unknown man sexually assaulted her.

"He attempted to talk to her then unexpectedly grabbed the victim, who fought and screamed during the incident," Braun said.

Working with the Orange County Crime Lab, suspect DNA was collected from both victims. This week, Investigators were notified that the suspect DNA profiles matched both attacks.
The suspect in both incidents is the same man, but his DNA profile does not match DNA in existing law enforcement databases.

"With this new information, it's vital that this individual is identified and doesn't have the opportunity to attack again," said Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes. "While our investigators continue their tireless attempts to identify this suspect, we implore the community to come forward if they have any information to share."

Following both incidents, the Orange County Sheriff's Department set up a task force in an attempt to identify and arrest the suspect. A team of more than 100 Sheriff's Department personnel ran multiple operations in the area. Also, investigators worked with local businesses on leads and launched a public information campaign that included social media, traditional media, and text message alerts. Despite a concerted effort, the task force operations did not result in a suspect being identified.

If you have information or may be able to identify the suspect, contact the Special Victims Detail at 714-647-7419. Anonymous information may be provided through Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.