An investigation is underway into a serial rapist who police say assaulted at least three women and assaulted numerous others in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo neighborhood.
Kenneth Alan Woolfolk, 37, was arrested Oct. 3 after a victim came forward to say he was raped inside a tent near the intersection of 1st Avenue and Judge John Asio.
“Detectives were conducting a follow-up investigation. Officer Jader Chavez of the Los Angeles Police Department observed the suspect, a person matching the suspect’s description, and the suspect was taken into custody and the rape suspect It has been positively identified that
Two other women also reported Woofolk and gave the same description of the suspect.
A homeless crisis worker told NBCLA’s sister station Telemundo 52 that Woolfolk is believed to be experiencing homelessness and is living on the street with his mother.
“Based on the evidence we have gathered, we believe this suspect is praying for vulnerable people experiencing homelessness,” Chavez said.
Woolfolk was booked into jail on October 18, but was released four days later. The district attorney did not charge him, according to the sheriff’s website. Prosecutors said the incident is under investigation.
Police believe Woolfolk may have assaulted another woman and are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
Sexual violence against people living on the streets is not uncommon.
“When you’re outside and you’re exposed, that’s to be expected,” said Veronica Ruiz, director of the homeless advocacy group HOPICS. “Incidences of violence are extremely high, and women are disproportionately represented.”
In the 2022 Los Angeles County Women’s Needs Assessment, 20% of women surveyed said they were forced or pressured into unwanted sex while homeless.
Lewis said the women resort to a variety of tactics to stay safe, including wearing layers and baggy clothing, carrying knives, and even using stimulants and drugs that keep them up at night. It is said that there is.
“You’re at even more risk when the electricity goes out,” Lewis explained.
