Ventura Police Nab Suspect Who Harassed Jogger
Ventura police arrested 20-year-old David Sanchez of Ventura, in connection with an attack on a woman running at Grant Park. The attack happened at 3:40 p.m on January 25th.
Police said the woman was running on the trails when a man seated next to the path, identified as Sanchez, reached out and slapped her on the buttocks. The woman turned around and faced the man, taking a fighting stance when he grabbed her wrists and would not let her go. The victim then tried kicking the suspect. That is when he released his grip and took off.
Regulars at the normally peaceful Grant Park were surprised by the news of the attack.
“That shocks me because I always feel safe here walking,” said walker Robin Rose.
“It is a safe park. We come up here every day almost and we never really see people that cause problems but you never know and I think the biggest thing is to be aware of your surroundings,” said runner Gary Gasawal
Police said the woman had a similar encounter with Sanchez about three months ago. In that encounter Sanchez followed the victim for about a quarter mile on the trail and made vulgar comments about the victim. The victim yelled at Sanchez and he fled the area.
Ventura police conducted a search warrant at Sanchez’s residence in the 200 block of Rosewood Avenue at about 9:15 a.m. Friday. Sanchez was taken into custody after he attempted to flee from the residence. He was later booked into the Ventura County Jail for sexual battery.
Detectives are continuing to investigate the incident and believe there may be more victims. They ask the public to contact Detective Corporal Sutherland at 805-339-4467 if anyone has been a victim of a crime and recognize Sanchez.
