EspañolMale Suspect Accused of Committing Two Separate Sexual Batteries At Walmart on 1275 North Azusa Avenue
COVINA, CALIFORNIA (February 16, 2024) – Investigators are trying to find a man they suspect committed two instances of sexual assault at a Covina Walmart on North Azusa Avenue.
Los Angeles County officials are saying that the incident took place between 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on December 2. The suspect was pictured in a hooded zipup jacket with thick glasses.
He reportedly escaped the Covina Walmart on a bicycle and is considered a threat to public safety. A full investigation into the sexual assault remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For Instances of Sexual Assault In Covina
Sexual assaults are unfortunately extremely common. Women are disproportionately the victims of these attacks. According to RAINN, “Females ages 16-19 are 4 times more likely than the general population to be victims of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault. Women ages 18-24 who are college students are 3 times more likely than women in general to experience sexual violence. Females of the same age who are not enrolled in college are 4 times more likely.” Victims of sexual assault tend to suffer very serious injuries.
- A large portion of victims of sexual assault suffer from symptoms of PTSD.
- An estimated 13% of women who are raped have attempted suicide.
- Victims of sexual assault are more likely to develop substance abuse problems.
Businesses have a legal obligation to protect guests from reasonably foreseeable sources of harm. This includes harm brought on by criminal activity. To that end, businesses must take reasonable steps to prevent guests from being assaulted or victimized. There are a number of steps that businesses should take in order to reduce the likelihood of a sexual assault from taking place.
- Businesses will typically need security measures such as alarm systems and adequate lighting.
- Employees should be properly trained on security protocols and how to handle emergency situations.
- Businesses should conduct thorough background checks on all employees that work for the business.
- Parking lots and walkways should be well-lit to deter criminal activity.
The level of security measures that a business may need to take will typically depend on a number of factors. Businesses in high crime areas may need additional security. When there is a string of similar incidents at a certain business, this should move that business to take action in order to protect their guests. Failing to take action in such a circumstance could form the basis of a negligence claim. Any person that is sexually assaulted at a Walmart or other retailer may be able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim.
Investigating Sexual Assaults At Covina Walmarts
We at the Carrillo Law Firm, LLP extend our best wishes to all of the people harmed at this Covina Walmart. Any person that may have more information about the suspect should reach out to police. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent similar incidents down the road.
Have you or someone that you care about been the victim of a sexual assault at a Walmart? You may have legal recourse. Our team of sexual abuse attorneys are here to help in any way that we can. We care deeply that abuse victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at 626-799-9375.
