(January 19, 2006) -- LBPD says its Detectives are seeking the public's help in locating a suspect or suspects in connection with two sexual assaults in the area of Carson St. and Orange Ave.

In a written release, LBPD says that on January 11, 2006 at about 12:30 a.m., a suspect entered the victim's residence through an unlocked door and sexually assaulted her. The suspect's face was concealed and he was armed with a handgun.

A similar sexual assault occurred on August 11, 2005, which Detectives are also investigating. At about 2:15 a.m., a suspect entered the victim's home through an unlocked door and sexually assaulted her. Again, the suspect's face was concealed and he was armed with a handgun.

In both cases, the suspect is described as an African American male, 5’10"- 6’2", in his mid to late 20's.

LBPD says Detectives are still looking into whether the crimes are connected but remind the public to take the following precautions [text from LBPD release]:

• Install effective locks on all doors and windows - and USE them.
• Install a peephole viewer in your door; NEVER open your door without knowing who is on the other side. Require salespeople or repair people to show identification.
• If you live alone, use only your last name and initials on mailboxes and in telephone directories.
• If strangers telephone you or come to your door, don't admit that you are alone.
• Don't let any strangers into your home - no matter what the reason. Offer to make an emergency phone call for them while they wait outside.
• If you live in an apartment, avoid being in the laundry room or garage by yourself, especially at night.
• If you come home and find a door or window open or any signs of forced entry - don't go in! Go to the nearest phone and call the police.

Anyone with information regarding either of the above crimes is asked to call Detective Patrick Jennings in the Sex Crimes Detail at (562) 570-7368.