Police: 13-Year-Old Boy Molested in Valley Park Bathroom

The Hermosa Beach Police Department is currently investigating a sexual assault of a minor victim.  On Wednesday, April 16 at approximately 8 p.m., the 13-year-old victim is believed to have been sexually assaulted in or about the Valley Park restroom at 2521 Valley Drive. 

The victim was physically restrained by the suspect as the victim tried to walk inside and use the restroom. The suspect then sexually assaulted the victim while physically overpowering them.  The victim reported the sexual assault the following day.

The suspect is described as male, Caucasian, clean cut, in his 30s, and was approximately 6 feet tall.

As the sexual assault involves a minor, the HBPD can legally only release limited information regarding the facts of the investigation. HBPD Detectives are actively working this case.  Due to the sensitive nature of this crime and the ongoing investigation, no further information will be released at this time.

Public safety is paramount. The HBPD asks that the community is vigilant in reporting suspicious activity. Uniformed and undercover police officers are conducting directed/saturation patrols of Hermosa Beach parks. 

Citizens with information or questions should contact Detective Dean Garkow (310) 318-0348, dgarkow@hermosapolice.org.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Since this incident, Manhattan Beach Police fielded a similar report from a boy in Manhattan Beach.