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Police Release Suspect Photos, Offer $25K Reward In Transgender Beating Case
Police have released video surveillance of the men suspected of assaulting a transgender woman in Hollywood Boulevard on May 31.
They also announced a $25,000 award for information leading to the arrest of the suspects.
On May 31, 2013, around 2:15 a.m., Vivian, (originally identified to the media by family members as Victor Diego), a transgender woman, was walking on Hollywood Boulevard after leaving her job at the restaurant Beso.
In the surveillance video, a group of men can be seen following her near the Hollywood and Ivar Metro station.
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Lt. Marc Reina of the LAPD said, "One of the members of the group ran after Vivian and struck her from behind, knocking her to the ground. The remaining members of the group then joined in, brutally assaulting Vivian and repeatedly kicking her, even while she lay motionless on the sidewalk." Some of the beating can be seen on the video.
The video footage is not clear but authorities are hoping someone will recognize the men. Vivian's image has been blurred out.
Vivian was left with two fractured ribs, a shattered cheekbone and a broken jaw. Diego's sister, Melissa told KCAL today that Vivian is out of the hospital, but her mouth is still wired shut.
LAPD Hollywood Area major assault crime detectives working the case are asking for the public's help in identifying the suspects. A special email account at hollywoodcrimetips@gmail.com has been established for anyone who may have information about the assault.
You can also contact the LAPD's Hollywood Area Detective Division at (213) 972-2967. During non-business hours or on weekends, call 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637. All text messages should begin with "LAPD."
Related:
Transgender Employee Of Eva Longoria's Restaurant Badly Beaten, 'Left For Dead'
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