Los Angeles, California – A horrific attack on a 63-year-old woman and a young child in the Sawtelle neighborhood of West Los Angeles has led to the arrest and charging of a 33-year-old man with multiple felonies. Ishmail Bangura was charged with assault with intent to commit rape and child abuse, among other charges, by the Los Angeles County District Attorney.
District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman condemned the violent attack, emphasizing the vulnerability of children and older adults in the community. He vowed to prosecute the case vigorously to seek justice and keep dangerous criminals off the streets. The incident, which occurred on February 27, involved Bangura attacking a young child before breaking into the woman’s home and assaulting her both inside and outside of the residence.
Neighbors intervened in the attack after hearing the victim’s screams for help, detaining Bangura until law enforcement arrived at the scene. The victim sustained substantial injuries, including bruised arms and requiring ten stitches in her forehead. Additionally, a three-year-old girl was hit during the assault by the naked perpetrator.
Bangura pleaded not guilty to all charges during his arraignment on March 5 and is scheduled for a court hearing on April 16. Although prosecutors had requested preventative detention, bail was set at $2 million after the motion was denied. A criminal protective order has been issued for the victims, and if convicted on all counts, Bangura could face a maximum sentence of life plus 13 years in state prison and be required to register as a sex offender for life.
The case was investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department and is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Matthew T. Bunnett from the Sex Crimes Division of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. The community has been shaken by this brutal incident, highlighting the importance of protecting the vulnerable members of society from such heinous acts.