Transgender Store Owner Sexually Assaulted and Attacked in MacArthur Park Hate Crimes

Brutal Attacks on Transgender Woman

• 💔 Sabrina de la Peña, a 61-year-old transgender woman, recounts the brutal attacks she has endured at her convenience store in MacArthur Park.
• 🤕 She suffered severe injuries including bruises to her face and head, a shoulder injury, and knocked-out teeth from being hit with a skateboard.
• ⚠️ De la Peña reports being sexually assaulted by a stranger who then returned with friends for further assaults, including being doused with acid.

Fear and Self-Defense Measures

• 😨 The repeated attacks have left de la Peña terrified for her life, leading her to close her shop early and arm herself with bear spray.
• 🗣️ Despite the area being known as dangerous, she feels a strong connection to her community and is hurt that she was not heard or helped sooner.
• 🚨 The attackers have allegedly threatened to kill her on future visits.

Police Investigation and Suspects

• 🔍 The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is investigating the incidents as hate crimes and is seeking the public's assistance.
• 📸 Photos of three outstanding suspects have been released; one is accused of sexual assault and threats, while the other two were involved in subsequent attacks.
• 📞 Detectives urge other potential victims to come forward and ask anyone with information to contact LAPD's Rampart Robbery Division or Crimestoppers.