Police Seek Public’s Help in Identifying Attempted Kidnap Suspect

The Gardena Police Department is seeking the public’s help in identifying an attempted kidnap suspect.  Two incidents have been reported in the South Bay in recent weeks.

On Tuesday, March 2, 2010 at approximately 9:30 AM, a 20-year old female college student was walking in the area of 156^th Street / Atkinson Avenue in the City of Gardena when she was approached by a male white suspect driving a bright red newer model red pick-up truck.   After the suspect’s unsuccessful attempt to lure the victim into his vehicle, he gave chase as the victim ran away.  The suspect eventually gave up chasing the victim and fled in the truck.

The suspect was described as a while male, approximately 45 years old, tanned skin, with wavy shoulder-length dirty blond hair.

A similar incident involving the attempted kidnapping of a 9-year-old girl and her 11-year brother was reported in Redondo Beach on February 26, 2010.  The suspect description is similar in both cases.

A composite drawing of the suspect in both cases was prepared and is vailable for distribution.  Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Gardena Police Department Detective Bureau at 310-217-9607, refer to case # 10-1169.

Lieutenant Steve Prendergast, Detective Bureau Commander, 310-217-6188

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