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Christopher Webb
After an attempted sexual assault on a young women this week, detectives quickly arrested a suspect and released his photo to the public, believing more teenaged women were victimized by the same man. It was just past 1 a.m. on Monday when a female, possibly a minor, was walking on Melrose Avenue near Alta Vista Boulevard. Police say Christopher Webb, 22, walked up, engaging her in conversation. He then allegedly pulled her into an alley where he attempted to rape her, but numerous calls to police prompted a swift response by police, whose lights and sirens spooked Webb.
Over the past year, a local neighborhood watch has aggressively trained residents in community policing. "Captain Davis reminds Melrose Action residents that community involvement and awareness are pivotal in fighting crime," reads a blog post from the group. "He also expressed THANK YOU to residents who do get involved and phone police when it matters. In this case it made the difference."
Webb's distinctive tattoos on his hands--the words "Honey" and "Combs" on his right and left hands, respectively--may have aided police in arresting Webb, a registered sex offender, on Tuesday morning. He is now being held on $225,000 bail.
Detectives suspect that Webb has attempted to or has raped other teenage victims. To that end, they are asking for help.
Anyone with information about this crime or similar assaults by Webb is asked to call Operations-West Bureau Sexual Assault Detail at (213) 473-0447. During off-hours, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247). Callers may also text “Crimes” with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on Web tips. When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.” Tipsters may remain anonymous.
