Pasadena police ask for help in search for sex-assault suspect with raspy voice

PASADENA, Calif. (KABC) -- Pasadena police are seeking the public's help finding a suspect with a distinct raspy voice who sexually assaulted a woman at knifepoint inside her car.

The woman had parked after picking up food from a nearby restaurant in the area of Sierra Villa Avenue and Foothill Boulevard around 8:40 p.m. Saturday, Pasadena police say.

The suspect was seen on surveillance video at first walking around the car and initially starting to head away but then turning around and opening up the door behind the driver.

"He got into her vehicle that was in the parking lot behind the restaurant," said Lisa Derderian, spokesperson for the city of Pasadena. "The doors were unlocked. A male subject got into the vehicle, forced a knife on her, and told her to drive several miles before sexually assaulting her."

The victim eventually managed to fight off the suspect and call 911 but the suspect fled before officers arrived.

The suspect is described as 6 feet tall, 30 to 40 years old, heavyset and was last seen wearing a black face mask, a gray hooded rain jacket, light blue jeans and black shoes.

Perhaps his most distinctive feature was a raspy voice.

He is believed to be a transient who frequents that area and police have stepped up their patrols. They are also asking local businesses to check their surveillance videos for any footage that may assist the investigation.

Michael Mollica, a father of two daughters who lives in Pasadena, said the incident highlights the need for personal safety and awareness, especially for women by themselves.

"You hear too many stories about women being assaulted," Mollica said. "I wish there was a way women could have a better chance of protecting themselves. Whether it be Mace or a stun gun or even possibly a concealed carry."

Anyone with information regarding the alleged sexual assault was urged to contact the Pasadena Police Department at (626)744-4241. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.

City News Service contributed to this report.