Los Angeles police are seeking the public’s help in locating a man who brutally assaulted a transgender woman inside her Westlake store last year, the department said.
The Los Angeles Police Department has identified 23-year-old Paul Alan Thomas as a suspect in the assault of 61-year-old Sabrina De La Pena, it said. Officials also released images of the suspect in hopes that the public can alert investigators of his whereabouts.
According to LAPD, De La Pena was attacked by a group of men at least two times last year in a case that’s under investigation as a hate crime.
The first attack happened on April 8, 2025, when a man entered the victim’s store in Westlake and began to flirt with her. After De La Pena rejected the man’s advances, he left the store and then returned to push her to the ground. Police said the man then sexually assaulted the victim and after discovering she is transgender, the attacker pulled away and threatened to kill her.
Police said after the initial attack, the man returned with two other men, who joined him in assaulting De La Pena again. The victim was struck with a skateboard, pepper-sprayed and had an unknown liquid thrown at her, according to LAPD.
A transgender woman says she is living in constant fear after she was attacked several times outside of her business in Westlake. Brittany Hope reports for the NBC4 News at 6 a.m. on June 3, 2025.
Authorities said the group of men returned to De La Pena’s store on May 31, 2025, and assaulted her again, leaving the victim with serious injuries.
“In all my life, this is the first time someone beat my face,” De La Pena told NBC Los Angeles at the time.
LAPD said they identified one of the suspects as Samuel Parros, who was arrested and booked on assault with a deadly weapon. The third suspect has yet to be identified,
Anyone who recognizes Thomas or who knows of his whereabouts is urged to contact LAPD Rampart Division Robbery Detectives at 213-484-3495. Anonymous tips can be made by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
No responses yet