Man sought, accused of sexually assaulting minor at Covina hotel

COVINA, Calif. (KABC) -- Police on Friday are asking for the public's help in tracking down a man accused of sexually assaulting a minor at a Covina hotel.

Authorities said a suspect at about 8 p.m. Wednesday drove through the Vanllee hotel parking lot in the 1200 block of Garvey Avenue North until he saw a lit room with drapes open.

The man parked his truck facing the hotel room, where two minors were inside. The suspect then masturbated while watching the two minors, police said. The man got out of his vehicle and stood outside of their hotel window, pretending to be on the phone for over 30 minutes, according to police.

The suspect walked through the hotel and forced his way into the room once the minors opened the door slightly, believing it was their chaperone. The suspect then assaulted one of the minors and fled in his truck.

Covina police said the victim is part of a Chinese tour group. She is doing as well as can be expected, and her parents in China have been notified about the incident.

Investigators said the Vanllee hotel is a busy way station for Chinese charter tours, including many students, and that may be what lured the child predator there.

The man is described as having a stocky build, balding with hair around his ears, a short beard and prescription glasses. He was wearing a tan or brown suit with a blue and white striped shirt.

The suspect's vehicle is described as a newer black or dark-colored Dodge 4500 Ram truck with a flat bed and a large metal ramp for a tail gate.

Authorities said the incident is an oral copulation investigation.

The aggressive nature of the crime has police worried the suspect will strike again.

"It was a bold act, a unique and terrible crime, so we'd definitely like as much help from the public in identifying who this is so this person will be placed in custody," said Lt. Nick Walczak of the Covina PD.

Anyone with information or questions regarding this crime is urged to contact Covina Police Department Detective Ramirez (626) 384-5621, Watch Commander (626) 384-5665, or Crime Stoppers (800) 222-TIPS (8477). Refer to Covina PD case # 18-4203.